Summer Microbiology Research Intern — Hands-On Lab

Ralco Agriculture; Marshall, Northern (MN, KY); Hybrid; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Ralco Nutrition partners with SMSU in Marshall, MN to offer a Microbiology Research Assistant Intern position for May 2027–August 2027. Located at the SMSU Microbiology Laboratory, interns will perform MIC determinations, growth curves, RT-qPCR, and Kirby-Bauer testing, while preparing media and maintaining aseptic conditions.

Interns will support data collection, reporting, and day-to-day lab operations, gaining hands-on experience in microbiology research and collaborating with experienced

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s science or agriculture related degree
• College students (sophomore and above)
• Interest in microbiology and laboratory work

Responsibilities

• Support staff in day-to-day project tasks and research activities
• Conduct antimicrobial assays, including MIC determinations, growth curves, RT-qPCR, and Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion tests
• Prepare and sterilize media, reagents, and bacterial cultures under aseptic conditions
• Maintain general laboratory and workspace cleanliness, including washing, sterilization, and organization of reusable scientific glassware and instruments
• Collect, organize, and accurately report research data
• Assist in the preparation of reports and presentations for internal or external use
• Perform administrative tasks as needed to support project workflows
• Participate in research or team meetings
• Shadow staff across multiple roles to gain exposure to diverse responsibilities
• Contribute to maintaining all laboratory safety protocols, guidelines, and hazardous material procedures
• Respond to web correspondence, emails, and social media interactions as directed
• Carry out other duties as assigned in support of basic research and team projects

Skills

Interest in developing research

Willingness to learn

Time management

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Independent & team work

Adaptability

Professionalism

Self-motivation

Growth mindset

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s science or agriculture related degree

Job description

Ralco Nutrition partners with SMSU in Marshall, MN to offer a Microbiology Research Assistant Intern position for May 2027–August 2027. Located at the SMSU Microbiology Laboratory, interns will perform MIC determinations, growth curves, RT-qPCR, and Kirby-Bauer testing, while preparing media and maintaining aseptic conditions.

Interns will support data collection, reporting, and day-to-day lab operations, gaining hands-on experience in microbiology research and collaborating with experienced