The Isbell Biodiversity Lab at the University of Minnesota is hiring a team of undergraduate and post-baccalaureate research interns to assist with ecological field work at Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve located in East Bethel, MN, approximately ~45 mins north of St. Paul, MN. This is an in-person position in a rural area, however, rental housing is available on site if needed. 

This is a full-time, but temporary, position (8 hrs a day M-F for 67 work days or less; up to ~13 weeks). Positions begin in June with flexible start dates and last through August/September. The end date for the positions is also flexible, but we prefer interns that can commit to working until at least Aug 21, 2026 or later. 

Interns work as a team under the supervision of the Isbell Lab manager. The intern team will work to conduct research in multiple ongoing projects at Cedar Creek. The Isbell lab has several ecological research projects that consider effects of global environmental changes (e.g. habitat loss and fragmentation, nutrient enrichment, climate change, exotic species invasions) on grassland plant communities. The majority of our work tasks involve working long periods outdoors in natural spaces, with occasional indoor data processing tasks. Position responsibilities include: 

• 50% Collect ecological samples and data: tasks include developing and applying plant identification skills, sampling plants, seeds, and soils; recording environmental measurements (e.g., light, soil moisture, temperature). 
• 40% Set-up and maintain field experiments: tasks include weeding plots, maintaining trail cameras, monitoring experimental infrastructure, and setting up experimental treatments.  
• 10 % Assist with other research-related tasks.   

Interns also have the opportunity to participate in an optional, but highly encouraged, supplementary research program at Cedar Creek. This research program involves group mentoring on your research project, as well as professional development workshops, career panels, and research seminars, offering an excellent opportunity to grow as a scientist. 

Required Qualifications

• Age: 18+
• Ability to work in person and outdoors at Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve
• Demonstrated experience working effectively as a member of a team 

Desired Qualifications 

• Strong interest in ecology or related field 
• Familiarity with identifying plants through coursework, job experiences, or as a hobby 
• Experience conducting fieldwork or working outdoors in a variety of conditions
• Demonstrated attention-to-detail skills