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Research Assistant/Associate - Part-Time Remote Opportunity with a Focus on Social Determinants of Health and Food Security

Remote, USA Full-time Posted 2025-11-03

Join the Movement: Part-Time Research Assistant/Associate Opportunity with Penn State's Bruening Lab

We are excited to announce an immediate hiring opportunity for a part-time Research Assistant/Associate to join the Bruening Lab at Penn State University. This role offers a unique chance to contribute to afterschool interventions focusing on social determinants of health and food security among low-income high school youth in the Tucson, Arizona area. As a Research Assistant/Associate, you will play a vital role in data collection, evaluation, literature reviews, and student meetings, all while being part of a prestigious institution dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability.

About Penn State University

Penn State University is a world-renowned institution, consistently ranking among the top one percent of universities globally. With 24 campuses, over 100,000 students, and 40,000 faculty and staff, Penn State is a vibrant community that values individual uniqueness, fosters inclusion, and supports diversity initiatives. Our mission is to bring positive impact to humanity through teaching, research, and engagement. We are committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Administer afterschool interventions with low-income high school youth in the Tucson, Arizona area, focusing on social determinants of health and food security
  • Assist with data collection and evaluation to inform program effectiveness and improvement
  • Conduct literature reviews to stay up-to-date on the latest research and best practices in the field
  • Participate in student meetings to discuss progress, challenges, and future directions
  • Operate a motor vehicle as part of job duties, requiring a valid US driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check

Requirements and Qualifications:

Essential Qualifications:

  • Current Penn State employee (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), or a current Penn State student (not employed previously at the university), or an external applicant
  • Three publicly available clearances:
    • PA State Police Criminal Background Check
    • PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form
    • FBI Criminal Background Check
  • Valid US driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working with high school youth, particularly in low-income communities
  • Knowledge of social determinants of health and food security
  • Research experience, including data collection and evaluation
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Skills and Competencies:

  • Strong research and analytical skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic research environment
  • Commitment to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits:

As a Research Assistant/Associate at Penn State University, you will have access to:

  • Opportunities for professional growth and development in a research-intensive environment
  • Collaborations with experienced faculty and researchers in the field
  • Access to cutting-edge research facilities and resources
  • Inclusion in a diverse and inclusive community that values individual uniqueness

Work Environment and Company Culture:

Penn State University is committed to providing a work environment that is inclusive, respectful, and supportive of all employees. Our culture is built on the values of:

  • Integrity
  • Respect
  • Responsibility
  • Discovery
  • Excellence
  • Community

Compensation and Benefits:

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

  • Competitive hourly rate
  • Opportunities for professional development and growth
  • Inclusion in a comprehensive benefits package

How to Apply:

If you are passionate about making a positive impact on communities and are excited about this opportunity, please apply today! Current Penn State employees and students should login to Workday to complete the internal application process. External applicants can click the "Apply" button to begin the application process.

Don't hesitate to apply if you don't meet every single requirement – we value a great attitude and a willingness to learn above all. Join our community of Penn Staters and contribute to our mission of bringing positive impact to humanity through teaching, research, and engagement.

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