Summer Internship - Science, Engineering, Chemistry - Scion

Location: Rotorua, New Zealand

Vacancy Number: 61302

Fixed Term:12 weeks

Hours: 40

Summer Student Intern – From Biomass to Functional Foam: Developing highly consistent growing media

Grow your research skills in a world-class science environment

Join our Materials Science team and contribute to innovative research aimed at transforming low-value agricultural fibre residues into functional, bio-based foams for use as sustainable growing media. Working alongside experienced researchers, you'll gain hands-on experience developing novel bio-based materials that support more sustainable growing systems while helping create higher-value opportunities for underutilised biomass resources. In a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment, you'll learn from experienced scientists while developing your research, analytical, and scientific communication skills.

What you will be doing \| Ngā whāinga matua

• Prepare and process selected biomass feedstocks, including pulping and foam manufacture.
• Support laboratory-based experimentation to optimise fibre foam production processes and material performance.
• Characterise and evaluate foam prototypes, including testing physical and mechanical properties.
• Assist with plant growth trials to assess the performance of developed materials as growing media.
• Collect, analyse, and interpret experimental data and contribute to research findings.
• Prepare a report and presentation summarising project outcomes, conclusions, and recommendations.

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

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

• Be currently studying towards a tertiary qualification in material science, engineering, science, chemistry, or a related discipline.
• Have an interest in sustainable materials a, biomass utilisation, or applied research.
• Enjoy hands-on laboratory work and practical experimentation.
• Demonstrate analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Be comfortable undertaking both laboratory-based and occasionally physical aspects of research work, including sample preparation and material processing.
• Have good written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team environment.
• Be able to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Show initiative, curiosity, and a willingness to learn new techniques.
• Be committed to maintaining safe laboratory practices and following workplace health and safety requirements.

Why join us?

This internship offers the opportunity to contribute to meaningful research that supports sustainable packaging innovation while gaining practical experience in applied science and engineering. Working in a professional research environment, you'll develop valuable technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills that will support your future career aspirations

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 fibre-foam technology, moulded fibre product development, and laboratory-based testing techniques.
• 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 # 61302

Posted on 30 Sep 2026

Closes on 11 Oct 2026 17:00

Location(s) Rotorua

Expertise Chemistry, Engineering

Job level(s) Student

Work type(s) Fixed Term less than 6 months

More details (document) PD - Science, Engineering, Chemistry.pdf