Summer Plant Science Intern: Rootstocks, GxE & Leaf Function

Science New Zealand; Te Puke; On-site; NZD 12,000 - 17,000; Full time

Job summary

Science New Zealand is offering a Summer Student Intern position in Te Puke to study how rootstocks interact with environment and affect vine and tree productivity. The role includes glasshouse and orchard work, data collection, and presenting findings to the project team.

You will gain practical research experience in plant physiology, experimental setup, and reporting, supported by experienced scientists and technicians. The internship runs for 12 weeks at 38 hours per week.

Qualifications

• Be currently studying towards a degree in Plant Science, Horticulture, Agriculture, Biological Sciences, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.
• Have an interest in plant physiology, crop production, or horticultural research.
• Enjoy both practical outdoor work and scientific investigation.
• Demonstrate strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Have good verbal and written communication skills.
• Be comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.
• Be motivated, enthusiastic, and willing to learn new techniques and technologies

Responsibilities

• Assist with plant husbandry activities in glasshouses and orchard trials.
• Help establish, maintain, and monitor research experiments.
• Learn and undertake a range of plant physiology measurements, including: Plant growth and development assessments, Photosynthetic performance, Plant water relations and stress responses, Canopy growth and development
• Collect and record research data.
• Capture photographs to document trial progress and support reporting activities.
• Work collaboratively with researchers and technical staff.
• Present your findings and observations to the project team at the conclusion of the studentship

Skills

Organisational skills

Verbal and written communication

Teamwork

Willing to learn new techniques

Education

Degree in Plant Science/Horticulture/Agriculture/Biology/Environmental Science

Job description

Science New Zealand is offering a Summer Student Intern position in Te Puke to study how rootstocks interact with environment and affect vine and tree productivity. The role includes glasshouse and orchard work, data collection, and presenting findings to the project team.

You will gain practical research experience in plant physiology, experimental setup, and reporting, supported by experienced scientists and technicians. The internship runs for 12 weeks at 38 hours per week.