Summer Intern - Screening Native Grasses for Biological Nitrification Inhibition Capacity

AgResearch; Whanganui; On-site; NZD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

AgResearch in Palmerston North invites applications for a Summer Student Intern to screen native grasses for biological nitrification inhibition capacity. The role is fixed-term for 12 weeks, with 40 hours per week, and involves hands-on plant growth, BNI bioassays, data analysis, and reporting.

You will work with leading scientists in a collaborative environment, gaining practical experience in plant and soil science research and laboratory techniques while contributing to environmental

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in, or recently completed, an undergraduate degree in plant science, soil science, environmental science, agriculture, biology, or a related discipline.
• Interest in environmental sustainability, agricultural systems, and scientific research.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to collect and record data accurately.
• Good communication skills and ability to work independently and in a team.
• Motivation to learn new laboratory and research techniques.

Responsibilities

• Grow selected native grasses in hydroponic systems and maintain experimental plants.
• Learn and conduct biological nitrification inhibition (BNI) bioassays using laboratory techniques.
• Collect, manage and analyse experimental data to evaluate BNI capacity of native grass species.
• Prepare a final report and presentation summarising research findings.
• Learn from experienced researchers in a collaborative scientific environment.

Education

Undergraduate degree in plant science, soil science, environmental science, agriculture, or biology

Job description

Location: Grasslands, Palmerston North, New Zealand

Fixed Term – 12 weeks

Hours: 40 hours

Summer Student Intern – Screening Native Grasses for Biological Nitrification Inhibition Capacity

Skills

Grow your research skills in a world-class science environment

Nitrification is a natural soil process that contributes to nitrate leaching into waterways and nitrous oxide emissions from grazed pastures. Finding ways to slow this process could help reduce agriculture's environmental impact and improve nitrogen-use efficiency.

One promising approach is biological nitrification inhibition (BNI), where plant roots naturally release compounds that suppress nitrification in the soil.

This project will investigate selected native grasses to identify species with strong BNI potential. The research could contribute to the development of natural, locally adapted solutions for cleaner waterways, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and healthier farming systems, supporting te Taiao.

What you will be doing | Ngā whāinga matua

• Grow selected native grasses in hydroponic systems and maintain experimental plants.
• Learn and conduct biological nitrification inhibition (BNI) bioassays using laboratory techniques.
• Collect, manage and analyse experimental data to evaluate BNI capacity of native grass species.
• Prepare a final report and presentation summarising research findings.
• 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, or recently completed, an undergraduate degree in plant science, soil science, environmental science, agriculture, biology, or a related discipline.
• An interest in environmental sustainability, agricultural systems, and scientific research.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to collect and record data accurately.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Motivation to learn new laboratory and research techniques.

Why join us?

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to research that addresses some of New Zealand’s most important environmental and agricultural challenges. You will work alongside leading scientists, gain hands‑on experience in a professional research environment, and be part of a project exploring innovative, nature‑based solutions to improve water quality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance sustainable farming systems.

A copy of the Position Description is available for you to view here.

What you will get | Ngā hua o tēnei tūranga

• Exposure to a professional research environment.
• Practical experience with plant and soil science research, laboratory techniques, and experimental systems.
• Mentoring and support from experienced scientists.
• Opportunities to strengthen your scientific communication and data analysis skills.
• Valuable experience to support future study and career opportunities in science.

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.