Internship - Plant Science / Microbiology - Scion - Careers at Science New Zealand

Location: Rotorua, New Zealand

Vacancy Number: 61264

Fixed Term: 12 Weeks

Hours: 40

Summer Student Intern – Climate Drivers of Terminal Crook Disease

Grow your research skills in a world-class science environment

Help tackle one of New Zealand forestry's emerging disease challenges. This summer internship will contribute to research investigating how environmental conditions influence the development of terminal crook disease in radiata pine. Working alongside experienced researchers, you will gain hands-on experience in plant pathology, disease monitoring, laboratory research, and data collection while contributing to the development of tools that support disease management decisions for the forestry sector.

What you will be doing | Ngā whāinga matua

• Assist with controlled inoculation experiments on radiata pine seedlings, including inoculum preparation, application, and disease assessments.
• Support laboratory and field-based research by collecting, recording, and managing disease and environmental data.
• Assist with trap plant monitoring and sample processing, including microscopy, pathogen isolation, or molecular analyses under supervision.
• Contribute to data entry, analysis, and interpretation to support epidemiological model development.
• Learn from experienced researchers in a collaborative scientific environment.

What you will bring | Ngā tino pūkenga me ngā wheako

To be successful in this role, the minimum qualifications required are:

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate programme in Plant Science, Forestry, Biological Sciences, Environmental Science, Plant Pathology, Microbiology, or a related discipline.
• An interest in plant disease epidemiology, forest health, and understanding how environmental factors influence disease development.
• A willingness to work in both laboratory and field environments and follow research protocols accurately.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to collect, record, and manage scientific data.
• Good communication and organisational skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a research team.

Why join us?

This internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research that supports the future sustainability of New Zealand's forestry industry. You will gain practical experience in plant pathology research, disease monitoring, experimental design, and data analysis while working alongside leading scientists in a supportive learning environment.

A copy of the Position Description is available for you to view once you click on the 'Apply' button.

What you will get | Ngā hua o tēnei tūranga

• Exposure to a professional research environment.
• Practical experience in plant disease epidemiology, laboratory research, and field monitoring techniques.
• Experience contributing to research that supports decision-making tools for New Zealand's forestry sector.
• Mentoring and support from experienced scientists.
• Opportunities to strengthen your scientific communication, data analysis, and problem-solving skills.
• Valuable experience to support future study and career opportunities in science, forestry, and plant health research.

About us | Ko wai mātou

We've built something new. AgResearch, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, Plant & Food Research and Scion have come together to form the Bioeconomy Science Institute. We are more than 2200 people working to support the growth and resilience of the bioeconomy in New Zealand and beyond.

Together, our world-class science can do more to advance innovation in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, aquaculture, biotechnology and manufacturing; protect and enhance ecosystems from biosecurity threats and climate risks; and develop new bio-based technologies and products.

For further details about the Bioeconomy Science Institute can be found on our website, watch this Bioeconomy Science Institute short clip.

Ready to Apply? | Kua rite koe ki te tono?

If you're enthusiastic about science and keen to apply your studies in a research setting, we'd love to hear from you. Bring your curiosity, motivation, and willingness to learn, and join us for an exciting summer research experience.