SPD Cropping Systems Intern Research Intern

Vylor, Inc.; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

Vylor, Inc. in Johnston, IA, seeks a Cropping Systems Intern for the Seed Product Development R&D team. The 6-month internship begins May 2027 to explore oilseed cropping systems, relay intercropping soybean and winter wheat, and reduced stature corn.

You will work with scientists, breeders, university partners, and non-profits to optimize agronomic practices, manage data, and participate in plant phenotyping and data visualization while gaining experience for graduate studies or future roles.

Qualifications

• Senior, Master of Science or PhD student in Agronomy, Ag Biology, Plant Physiology, Genetics, or related field.
• Enrollment at an accredited university during internship.
• Relocation to Johnston, IA for duration of internship.
• Knowledge of R/Python for statistical analyses and visualizations.
• Willingness to work outdoors and wear PPE as required.
• Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Assist with planting and harvest field activities.
• Lead data collection and phenology notes.
• Design, execute, and analyze a research project.
• Learn data management and visualization.

Skills

R

Python

Data analysis

Plot data collection

Willingness to relocate

PPE awareness

Education

Bachelor/Master/PhD student in Agronomy/Biology/Plant Science or related field

Tools

R

Python

Job description

Join Vylor—Powering the Future of AgricultureAt Vylor, we’re advancing agriculture through breakthrough science—combining elite germplasm, cutting-edge biotech, and next-generation expertise in gene editing and molecular breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer, Brevant, and Hoegemeyer, delivering performance farmers rely on.Join us to help scale innovation globally and shape what’s next in crop science.Vylor is seeking a Cropping Systems Intern within Seed Product Development R&D department! The internship will be based out of Johnston, IA and the internship will start in May of 2027, with a duration of 6 months. In this role, you will have the opportunity to conduct research on oilseed cropping systems, relay intercropping soybean and winter wheat, and reduced stature corn. You will partner with scientists in R&D, breeders and university collaborators and agricultural non-profit organizations to optimize agronomic practices, improve resource use and shape the future of cropping systems.As a research intern, you will have the opportunity to design, execute, and analyze results for a research project as well as obtain experiences across the areas of plot management, plant characterization, and plant breeding research activities.Your job will include field activities such as assisting with planting/harvest, leading data collection activities and phenology note-taking. You will learn about data management and data analysis and visualization. You will be mentored by a research scientist.In addition to conducting research with the Cropping Systems Team, you will have the opportunity to learn about the diverse array of research activities focused on corn and soybean breeding at the research station. You will work as part of a multidisciplinary team and have exposure to scientists in a diversity of fields, thus this position provides excellent experience that will prepare you for graduate education or to full-time positions in the public or private sector.QualificationsSenior, Master of Science or PhD student, in Agronomy, Ag Business, Biology, Ecology, Plant Physiology, Plant Pathology, Genetics, Agricultural Engineering or a related field.Interest in graduate work or careers in agricultural research, data science and/or agriculture engineering.Preference will be given to students with a minimum GPA of 3.0.Must be enrolled at an accredited university at the time of internship.Must be able to relocate to Johnston, IA, for the duration of the internship.Knowledge of R/Python for statistical analyses and visualizations.Must be willing to work outside and wear appropriate PPE when required.Creative thinking and ability to work independently and in a team environment.Driver’s license required.Are you a good match? Apply today! We seek applicants from all backgrounds to ensure we get the best, most creative talent on our team.Corteva announced to separate our current advanced seed and genetics business to establish a standalone company, operating as Vylor, Inc. The process of the planned separation is anticipated to be completed the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to legal requirements and board approval. Should you accept this position, it is anticipated that, following conclusion of the separation, you would be an employee of Vylor, Inc. and your employment would be governed by Vylor, Inc. employment processes, programs, policies, and benefit plans. In that case, details of any planned changes would be provided to you by Vylor, Inc. at an appropriate time and subject to any necessary consultation processes.Vylor is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to embracing our differences to enrich lives, advance innovation, and boost company performance. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, military or veteran status, pregnancy related conditions (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), disability or any other protected status in accordance with federal, state, or local laws.