The Soil Health Institute opens internship for Summer 2024

The Soil Health Institute (SHI), a non-profit organization created to safeguard and enhance the vitality and productivity of soil through scientific research and advancement, is seeking to hire a group of Soil Health Interns for Summer 2024. This internship program aims to improve access and opportunity by providing both professional and scientific experience through mentorship. 

Specifically, selected interns will contribute to SHI’s program efforts by working alongside an SHI scientist to assist in developing new knowledge in measuring and assessing soil regeneration through scientific discovery (a research project), sampling for soil health (approx. 1 to 2 weeks on sight soil collection at farms), and professional development through engagement with scientists and agricultural sustainability specialists (in person and virtual). 

Potential activities may include the following: assisting SHI scientists with soil sampling in cropland throughout Alabama, Georgia, the Carolinas, and the Mississippi Delta; collecting and analyzing soil data; creating graphs; and synthesizing results. Each Intern will be assigned an SHI scientist to work with and perform an independent, hands-on research project. Other activities include engaging in SHI project meetings between SHI team members as well as with external SHI partners and gaining exposure to various agricultural disciplines through in-person and virtual interactions. Interns will also have the opportunity for direct engagement with SHI leadership at SHI headquarters in Research Triangle Park, NC. Upon completion of the internship, each participant will submit a written scientific report and present a seminar on project results and the internship experience.  

The program lasts 12 weeks and includes a stipend to support housing, living, and personal expenses. Costs of travel associated with field sampling and to SHI headquarters will be paid in addition to the stipend. The tentative start and end dates are May 15 and August 4. This internship is open to the following majors, listed in order of preference: Agronomy, Plant Science, Soil Science, Agricultural Science, Environmental Science, Biology, and Botany.  

 

To apply send: 

• A copy of unofficial college transcripts. 
• A 1-page essay (12 pt. font single spaced) describing your interest in the program and career goals. 
• 1 letter of recommendation to Ms. Chesley Cuicchi at internshipSHI@soilhealthinstitute.org. Include “internship application” in the email subject.  

 

Applications will be reviewed and Zoom interviews will be conducted in late February 2024.  

The deadline to apply is February 15, 2024.