College
of Agricultural Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park PA
A
successful Research Assistant/Associate in this position provides
organizational leadership as part of a diverse team of professionals dedicated
to offering science-based, socially-relevant information as part of the Animal
Welfare and Environment Initiative of Penn State Extension. The Assistant/Associate
is expected to be a leader in the development and coordination of state-wide Extension
programs on farm and food animal welfare issues relating to agriculture,
safety, and the environment. Animal welfare education and research program
needs include:
·
Attributes of current and proposed
animal management practices on animal welfare, behavior, and health;
·
The impact on the environment of
animal welfare practices within agricultural systems and associated societal
changes;
·
Economic, food safety, human health,
and agricultural viability related to current and proposed welfare practices;
·
Strategies for managing new animal
welfare practices and their benefits/costs;
·
Entrepreneurial opportunities
associated with animal welfare practices in Pennsylvania; and
·
Expanding the ability for
agricultural community members to include science-based input into animal welfare
decisions at the local, state and national levels
Responsibilities include: 1. Work closely
with faculty, Extension/research Associates and Extension Educators in
preparing proposals for outside funding and managing the resultant applied
research projects. 2. Conduct program evaluations, prepare traditional and
electronic educational materials, teach in non-formal settings, and other
aspects of program delivery. 3. Maintain and build partnerships with
other organizations for developing and implementing relevant animal welfare
programs for diverse audiences, including producers, activists, agribusinesses,
technical service providers, citizens, government officials, community leaders,
regulatory agency staff, and representatives of non-governmental
organizations.
Qualifications
Position requires a Master’s Degree (Research
Assistant) or PhD (Research Associate) in agricultural/biological engineering,
animal sciences, veterinary science or equivalent. Credentials outside these
science-technology-based agricultural degrees will be considered when
associated with relevant experience or on-farm agricultural background. Excellent
communication ability is essential (written, electronic, oral, interpersonal)
along with teaching, organizational, and problem-solving skills. The job will involve in-state travel and some
evening work along with potential for national and international participation
in educational events.
Candidate must have an ability to work in a
collaborative leadership role as part of a large team comprised of members from
various disciplines, perspectives and animal care backgrounds. Experience with
social media is necessary to aid timely communication of current animal welfare
discussions. Prowess using computers (word processing, spreadsheets, web
pages), distance learning, and electronic communication will be useful for
success in the position. Knowledge of needs assessment, Extension program
evaluation and data collection/analysis methods is desired, but training will
be provided. Experience with educational methods for addressing multiple
sides of controversial issues and with agricultural or activist organizations
is desired. Experience with diverse populations is desirable.
Applicants should submit a letter
of application, curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, and names of at least
three professional references (including address, telephone
and e-mail address) to: Dorcas Holt, 249 Agricultural Engineering Building,
University Park, PA 16802 Email: drh3@psu.edu. Applications will be viewed
beginning May 1, 2013 until position is filled. This position requires that you
operate a motor vehicle as part of your job duties. A valid driver's license
and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in
addition to standard background check. This is a fixed-term appointment funded
for one year from date of hire with excellent possibility of re-funding.
Employment will require successful completion of background check(s) in
accordance with University policies. Job
Number 39387. [6 May 2013]
Penn State is committee to
affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce.