Plant Ecology Research Intern; Temporary - Cedar Creek

About the Job

The Isbell Biodiversity Lab ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).) at the University of Minnesota is hiring a team of 5–8 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 minutes 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 hours a day, M‑F, for 67 workdays 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 who can commit to working until at least August 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.

• 50% Collect ecological samples and data: develop and apply plant identification skills, sample plants, seeds, and soils; record environmental measurements (e.g., light, soil moisture, temperature).
• 40% Set‑up and maintain field experiments: weed plots, maintain trail cameras, monitor experimental infrastructure, and set 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.

• 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.

• 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.

Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve is a large biological research site in east‑central Minnesota with natural habitats that represent the entire state. There is no place of comparable biological diversity so close to the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Cedar Creek is owned and operated by the University of Minnesota in cooperation with the Minnesota Academy of Science.

• Our mission is to increase understanding of natural systems and to investigate and share sustainable solutions to environmental challenges.
• Our strategy for achieving this mission includes research, conservation, and education in partnership with members of our local and global community.
• Our vision is a future where biodiversity and the full diversity of people thrive.
• Our commitment is to be an inclusive place for research, mutual learning, and community for people of all identities.

Pay Range: $16.00/hour; overtime hours during peak season in August are compensated at time and a half ($24.00/hour).

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor‑Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

There are two different job postings through the University of Minnesota job board for the same position. If you are currently an undergraduate student at the University of Minnesota (any campus), please apply through job posting 371943. All other applicants, including recent high school graduates, undergraduate students from other institutions and all post‑baccalaureates…