Internship in the Barley Agronomy Research Program
The Barley Agronomy program is housed at the University of Idaho’s Aberdeen Research and Outreach Center. The Barley Agronomy program researches sustainable irrigated barley production strategies with emphasis on nutrient management, plant health, and soil and water quality for yield and end-use quality for malt, feed, food, and forage barley. This year, the Barley Agronomy research program will re-evaluate nitrogen and sulfur rate guidelines for barley grown in southern and south-eastern Idaho. As an intern, the candidate will learn the principles of conducting small grain research by assisting in soil and plant tissue sample collection, data analysis, and will have the opportunity to present his/her research findings to local, national, and international audiences.
Responsibilities:
- Learn to use the scientific method to address nutrient management in barley production
- Assist in managing experimental field plots and collecting soil and plant tissue samples
- Learn to utilize laboratory equipment to analyze soil and plant tissue samples for nutrient content
- Work with Dr. Spackman to perform data analysis and prepare a poster to present at the annual ASA-CSSA-SSSA meetings in Salt Lake City
Expectations and requirements:
In addition to collecting data for the intern’s own project, it is expected that the candidate will help with the other Barley Agronomy projects. This position will require the candidate work outdoors in inclement weather to collect soil and plant tissue samples. Additionally, a driver’s license is required to drive the Barley Agronomy program vehicles from Aberdeen to Kimberly and Rexburg field sites. Applicants must be 16 years of age or older.
Expected hours of work:
- May to mid-September (Start and end dates are flexible based on the candidate’
schedule)
- Typical, daily farm hours are 7 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, with occasional hours outside this window