Job Opening: Summer Research Assistant

The Savanna Institute invites applications for a Summer Research Assistant to help with research and field work in agroforestry systems.  Most work will occur in and around Spring Green, WI.

We seek applicants who share our passion for ecological and equitable agriculture as a nature-based climate solution and who are motivated to widen the circle of who has the opportunity to inform, support, and benefit from its development. To that end, we are seeking a diversity of voices at the table and strongly encourage people of color, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply.

Who We Are

The Savanna Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Madison, WI and Urbana, IL. Established in 2013, we work in collaboration with farmers, businesses, and scientists to lay the groundwork for widespread agroforestry in the Midwest US. Inspired by the native savanna ecosystems that once covered much of this region, we envision a transformed agricultural system, centered on trees and other perennial crops, that fosters ecological resilience, climate stability, economic prosperity, and vibrant, equitable communities. For more information, please visit savannainstitute.org.

Job Description

Hours: 30-40 hours per week for up to 12 weeks

Location: Madison, WI; Spring Green, WI; or surrounding region

Start Date: May - early June (exact date negotiable)

Salary: $18/hr

• This position is not eligible for the Institute’s benefits package
• This position reports to the Cropping Systems Scientist

Duties/Responsibilities

• Collecting data on plant survivorship and growth in a research trial at a working agroforestry farm
• Collecting and processing forage and weed biomass samples
• Assisting with plot maintenance (weeding, mowing, trimming) at the agroforestry site
• Assisting with other research experiments as needed

Required Qualifications

• Education or work experience in crop science, agronomy, ecology, environmental science, biology, or a related field
• Experience in data collection and data entry
• Personal transportation to get to Madison and Spring Green work sites
• Ability to perform field work up to 8 hours per day

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior familiarity with agroforestry, forestry, farming, or fruit or nut crops
• Experience operating small field equipment (weed whacker, riding mower, etc.)
• Interest in pursuing a career in sustainable agriculture or ecology

If you're excited about this job, we're excited to learn about your experience! Please be sure to address each of the following qualifications in your cover letter — paint us a picture of how your unique skills, experiences, and/or education meet or exceed the qualifications. Cover letters should be no longer than 1 typed page. 

How To Apply Submit a resume/CV and cover letter to the position on our jobs page: https://www.savannainstitute.org/jobs/

Deadline All applications must be received by 11:59 pm CT on Feb 22nd, 2026.

Questions? Email Kathleen Fitzgibbon, Assistant Director of Administration, at kathleen@savannainstitute.org.

Diversity Commitment

The Savanna Institute affirms the value of diversity of staff and stakeholders, and aims to foster inclusive environments and equitable outcomes of our work. We seek individuals who are committed to these goals.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law.