Soil Fertility & Nutrient Management Lab - Part-Time Undergraduate Research Internship

Penn State University • University Park, IL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Soil Fertility and Nutrient Management Laboratory in Penn State’s Department of Plant Science, led by Dr. Charlie White, is seeking an enthusiastic undergraduate student intern to assist with ongoing field and laboratory research evaluating nutrient cycling, fertilizer and manure management, and water quality dynamics in agroecosystems.

The position provides hands-on experience across the research workflow, from field plot sampling through laboratory analysis. Depending on the student’s interests, it may also offer mentorship in scientific data analysis, presentation preparation, scientific writing and publishing, and networking with industry collaborators.

The position is based in the Agricultural Sciences and Industries (ASI) Building and includes local field travel. The schedule is 10–15 hours per week during the academic semester, with the possibility of up to 40 hours per week during the summer. The start date is listed as immediately, Fall Semester 2026. Compensation is hourly, starting at $16 per hour and commensurate with experience. Employment requires successful completion of background checks; because driving is part of the duties, a valid driver’s license and successful motor vehicle records check are also required.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled as a Penn State undergraduate student majoring in Environmental Resource Management, Agroecology, Plant Science, Animal Science, or a closely related agricultural or environmental discipline.
• Willingness and ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions during field sampling campaigns.
• Strong attention to detail, commitment to laboratory safety protocols, and good record-keeping practices.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team.
• Valid U.S. driver’s license; successful completion of a motor vehicle records check is required.
• Successful completion of required background checks.

Nice To Haves

• Prior coursework in soil science, agronomy, or environmental sciences.

Responsibilities

• Assist with collecting soil, plant biomass, and runoff/water samples across experiments at the Rock Springs research farm.
• Process and analyze soil, plant, and water samples using laboratory techniques and instrumentation.
• Optionally assist with data organization and learn statistical analysis using tools such as R or SAS.
• Depending on interest, explore opportunities to co-author extension articles or scientific manuscripts, or present findings at regional events.
• Travel to local field sites using university vehicles.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed