Sustainability Research Intern: SCOBY Value Creation

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

Job summary

AgResearch invites a Summer Student Intern to explore value creation from kombucha by-products in a fixed-term 12-week program. The role offers hands-on factory-based learning alongside scientists, Māori partners, and Lincoln University within the Bioeconomy Science Institute.

You will investigate SCOBY streams, review literature, collect samples, and analyse their potential for circular bioeconomy applications, culminating in a final report and presentation.

Qualifications

• Currently studying a related field (food science, biological sciences, environmental science, biotechnology, sustainability, chemistry, business, Māori resource management, or related).
• Curiosity, willingness to learn, and interest in connecting science, sustainability and real-world application.

Responsibilities

• Learn about the kombucha brewing process and how SCOBY streams are produced and handled.
• Review literature on properties and potential uses of SCOBY.
• Collect and prepare representative SCOBY samples for analysis.
• Compare nutritional, structural, functional and microbial characteristics of SCOBY streams.
• Assess preliminary suitability for value-added applications.
• Prepare a final report and presentation outlining opportunities and recommendations.

Skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

Self-motivation

Independent work

Teamwork

Organization

Education

Currently pursuing related degree

Job description

AgResearch invites a Summer Student Intern to explore value creation from kombucha by-products in a fixed-term 12-week program. The role offers hands-on factory-based learning alongside scientists, Māori partners, and Lincoln University within the Bioeconomy Science Institute.

You will investigate SCOBY streams, review literature, collect samples, and analyse their potential for circular bioeconomy applications, culminating in a final report and presentation.