Forest Pathology Internship: Pine Disease Resistance

Science New Zealand; Rotorua; On-site; NZD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

The Bioeconomy Science Institute is offering a Summer Student Intern role in Rotorua to screen radiata pine for resistance to terminal crook disease. You will work with forest health researchers to culture fungi, inoculate seedlings, and record observations in a controlled setting.

You will gain hands-on experience in plant pathology, disease screening, and forest genetics while contributing to a project that supports sustainable forestry in New Zealand.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in forestry, plant science, biology, microbiology, or related field.
• Interest in forest health, plant pathology, breeding, or applied biological research.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Culture Colletotrichum isolates and prepare inoculum suspensions.
• Inoculate radiata pine seedlings under controlled conditions.
• Assess disease severity and plant growth; record observations and data.
• Collaborate with researchers to analyse resistance and breeding data.
• Prepare a report and contribute to project presentations.

Skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Independent work

Education

Undergraduate degree in forestry, plant science, biology, microbiology, or related field

Tools

Laboratory techniques

Job description

The Bioeconomy Science Institute is offering a Summer Student Intern role in Rotorua to screen radiata pine for resistance to terminal crook disease. You will work with forest health researchers to culture fungi, inoculate seedlings, and record observations in a controlled setting.

You will gain hands-on experience in plant pathology, disease screening, and forest genetics while contributing to a project that supports sustainable forestry in New Zealand.