Summer Internship - Biological Sciences, Atmospheric Science, Chemistry or Engineering - Scion

Location: Christchurch, New Zealand

Vacancy Number: 61482

Fixed Term: 12 weeks

Hours: 40

Summer Student Intern – Biological sciences, Atmospheric Science, Chemistry or Engineering

Grow your research skills in a world-class science environment

This internship will gather new knowledge on the active space of pheromone sources, coupled with small-scale eddy simulation (PaLM) to improve pest-population delimitation for surveillance during a biosecurity response and achieve improved biosecurity outcomes. The project aims to measure an insect’s response to a pheromone coupled with continuous gas analysis of tracer gas, to define and characterise the attraction radius around a pheromone source (i.e. surveillance trap or female insect), informing improvements in pest detection \& surveillance strategies. One of the pieces of equipment that will allow us to gather data to build such models is a Fast Response Continuous Gas Analyser.

What you will be doing \| Ngā whāinga matua

• Laboratory verification of all components that build up to run the Fast Response Continuous Gas Analyser, understanding its operating limits.
• Testing detection limits to build concentration curves for the device with a known tracer gas, SF6, at 0.1, 1 and 10 ppb or lower.
• Assist in the design and build of a gas release device, to release SF6 gas at known release rates
• Wind tunnel experiments to measure device response to known quantities of released gas, to quantify detection limits
• Assist the research team with open space field trials if all laboratory and wind tunnel testing is validated.
• Work independently and pro-actively to ensure all work is carried out meticulously and in a timely fashion.
• Data entry and preliminary analysis.

What you will bring \| Ngā tino pūkenga me ngā wheako

To be successful in this role, the minimum qualifications required are:

• Is currently enrolled in, or recently completed, an undergraduate degree in biological sciences, atmospheric science, chemistry, agricultural science, forestry, environmental science, chemical engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, data science, artificial intelligence, or a related field.
• Experience working in a laboratory is essential
• Strong can-do attitude
• Computer data entry and analysis skills are required
• Willingness to work in a team and alone, self-driven
• Excellent oral communication abilities
• Driver’s licence is a benefit but not required with travel between Christchurch and Lincoln
• Interest in technology development is a plus

Why join us?

This internship offers an exciting opportunity to work on a practical AI project with real organisational impact. You will gain experience exploring emerging technologies, engaging with business stakeholders, and helping shape innovative approaches to knowledge management. The project provides exposure to the growing field of AI-enabled business solutions while developing skills that are increasingly sought after across research, technology, and commercial organisations.

A copy of the Position Description is available for you to view once you click on the 'Apply' button.

What you will get \| Ngā hua o tēnei tūranga

• Exposure to a professional research environment.
• Practical experience with plant and soil science research, laboratory techniques, and experimental systems.
• Mentoring and support from experienced scientists.
• Opportunities to strengthen your scientific communication and data analysis skills.
• Valuable experience to support future study and career opportunities in science.

About us \| Ko wai mātou

We've built something new. AgResearch, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, Plant \& Food Research and Scion have come together to form the Bioeconomy Science Institute. We are more than 2200 people working to support the growth and resilience of the bioeconomy in New Zealand and beyond.

Together, our world-class science can do more to advance innovation in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, aquaculture, biotechnology and manufacturing; protect and enhance ecosystems from biosecurity threats and climate risks; and develop new bio-based technologies and products.

For further details about the Bioeconomy Science Institute can be found on our website, watch this Bioeconomy Science Institute short clip.

Ready to Apply? \| Kua rite koe ki te tono?

If you're enthusiastic about science and keen to apply your studies in a research setting, we'd love to hear from you. Bring your curiosity, motivation, and willingness to learn, and join us for an exciting summer research experience.

Job Details

Crown research institute Scion

Reference # 61482

Posted on 02 Oct 2026

Closes on 11 Oct 2026 17:00

Location(s) Christchurch

Expertise Entomology

Job level(s) Student

Work type(s) Fixed Term less than 6 months

More details (document) PD - Biological Sciences, Atmospheric Science, Chemistry or Engineering.pdf