The SEAREC Internship is a comprehensive experiential learning program. Each summer, 3 to 6 individuals are invited to work beside educators and faculty to conduct research and produce crops from May through August.
SEAREC interns are cross-trained in many disciplines.
Participants in the program support vegetable, small fruit, floriculture, industrial hemp, field crop and environmental research and education. Students matriculated at any college or university may apply for the position.
Enrichment programming is provided through invited guest lectures, field trips, professional development, and events throughout the summer. Past topics have included environmental health and safety, self-mentorship, plant nutrition, biological control, permaculture, resume building, and ag careers. Past interns have gone on to successful positions in natural resource management, non-profit farm management, floriculture, agricultural industry support, public service, and post-graduate study.
Job Title: Summer Research Assistant
- Location: Penn State's Southeast Agricultural Research & Extension Center, 1446 Auction Rd., Manheim, PA
- Job Type: Seasonal/Temporary
- Full or Part Time: Full Time
Job Description
Assist with ornamental, vegetable, and agronomic crop research and production at the Southeast Agricultural Research & Extension Center in Manheim, PA. Activities may include, but are not limited to, planting, harvesting, field and site maintenance, and data collection and entry. Interns will also provide assistance during field days and other events at the Center. Interns will gain exposure to multiple aspects of agricultural production as well as research in the fields of entomology, plant pathology, ecology and others. At the research farm, many different disciplines intersect, including biology, education, sociology, and engineering, exposing interns to many facets of research. All staff participates in manual work such as mowing, and weeding. Interns will also have responsibilities for specific projects depending on their supervising researcher.
Summer interns have several unique opportunities while working at the research farm. During lunch and learn sessions, researchers and others will educate interns on their area of expertise over the lunch break. There are several summer field days on the farm covering topics ranging from the farm's flower trials to agronomy. Interns will have the opportunity to attend some educational sessions at these field days.
Starting date is as early as possible following the end of the spring semester (typically early May for most students), and end date would be just prior to start of fall semester 2025 (variable based on your college). These positions are paid at 40 hours per week (7:30am-4:00pm), and rate is dependent upon applicant experience. Interns will be asked to water on weekends occasionally. There will be opportunities to provide support for additional off-hours events. Please be aware that housing is not provided.
Job Requirements
There are no specific requirements for this job other than the willingness to work hard, and to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions. Previous farm experience is not necessary. Interns are not expected to come in with much prior knowledge, just a keen interest and willingness to learn. Driver's license and personal vehicle preferred.
- Application Period:January 1, 2025 - February 28, 2025
- Application Instructions: Please send a cover letter and resume to Alyssa Collins (collins@psu.edu) by February 28, 2025
- Contact Name: Dr. Alyssa Collins - Director of the Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center
- Contact Email: collins@psu.edu
