Phenomics Intern — Data-Driven Ag Research

ISU Research Park; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

Syngenta's Analytics & Data Sciences team in Des Moines, Iowa is seeking a Digital Phenomics Intern to gain hands-on experience in agricultural technology and plant sciences.

During May–August 2027, you will support phenotyping platform operations, assist with image processing and trait extraction, and present a research initiative to leadership, collaborating with breeders, agronomists and data scientists.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled as a graduate student in an accredited college/university.
• Pursuing degree in Plant Breeding, Plant Science, Agronomy, Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Biology, Plant Pathology, Horticulture, Entomology, Weed science Crop Science, or related discipline.
• Hands-on experience with agricultural research, remote sensing, field trials, or crop production systems beneficial.
• Programming proficiency in Python and/or R for data analysis and visualization.
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences.

Responsibilities

• Support phenotyping platform operations including sensor deployment, image acquisition, and field data collection across greenhouse and field environments.
• Contribute to image processing workflows, trait extraction algorithms, and analytical pipeline optimization using advanced computational tools.
• Lead an independent research initiative focused on phenotyping methodology validation or trait measurement innovation, culminating in a presentation to research leadership.
• Partner with plant breeders, agronomists, and data scientists to integrate phenotypic insights into breeding decisions and product development.
• Maintain detailed experimental records, standard operating procedures, and technical documentation to ensure reproducibility.

Skills

Python

R

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Graduate student

Job description

Syngenta's Analytics & Data Sciences team in Des Moines, Iowa is seeking a Digital Phenomics Intern to gain hands-on experience in agricultural technology and plant sciences.

During May–August 2027, you will support phenotyping platform operations, assist with image processing and trait extraction, and present a research initiative to leadership, collaborating with breeders, agronomists and data scientists.