MŌ TE PAKIHI | ABOUT THE COMPANY:

As part of the Government’s reset of the science, innovation and technology system, on 1 July 2025, AgResearch, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, Plant & Food Research, and Scion merged to form the New Zealand Institute for Bioeconomy Science, trading as the Bioeconomy Science Institute.
This merger has created a world-class research organisation of globally significant size and scale, with over 2,000 employees — including scientists, researchers, and support staff. It brings together fundamental science knowledge and expertise in the natural resources that underpin the bioeconomy and the native estate, alongside applied research capabilities in manufacturing, agritech and biotech, and the food and fibre sectors.
At the AgResearch Group - New Zealand Institute for Bioeconomy Science Ltd, our purpose is to use science to enhance the value, productivity, and profitability of New Zealand’s pastoral, agri-food, and agri-technology sector value chains to contribute to economic growth and beneficial environmental and social outcomes for New Zealand. We are committed to the knowledge system of mātauranga Māori on equal footing with Western science and existing structures, that have helped support positive change in farming practices and food production in Aotearoa.
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Kōrero mō te tūranga | About the role
AgResearch is looking for enthusiastic and dedicated students to join us for our Summer Internship program which runs from 24 November 2025 until 13 February 2026. Our program is aimed at students who are currently undertaking tertiary study.
This is an exciting opportunity for you to experience what your science career could be like at a Science Institute. You will gain exposure to the science community, develop your skills, and create collaborative connections.
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Te kaupapa | The project
Are you passionate about plants, sustainability, and climate resilience? We’re looking for a summer student to join our research team in a hands-on project exploring what makes pastures more productive, persistent, and resilient under climate change. This project focuses on understanding how plant root traits influence the survival of pasture species during dry summer periods. You’ll use specialised tools to photograph roots growing underground and then analyse the images to assess root structure and function. You’ll also take above-ground pasture measurements to help us understand how these root traits relate to overall pasture persistence and environmental outcomes. Produce and prepare potato waste feedstock for fermentation processes.
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Please refer the Job description for details