dimanche 19 mai 2013

Research Assistant/Associate, Animal Welfare Science


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.