Sustainable Agricultural Systems Laboratory, Beltsville, MD

Field / Lab Research Assistants 

Dr. Mirsky (USDA-ARS Sustainable Agricultural Systems Laboratory; Beltsville, MD) is looking for motivated, hardworking individuals to help him conduct research in organic and sustainable cropping systems. Experiments evaluate the role of cover crops and their integration into agro-ecosystems for soil, crop and, weed management. We are currently reviewing applicants for an unpaid internships; college credits possible.

     

In the off-season, students spend time in the greenhouse conducting plant tissue, soil and greenhouse gas analysis.  During the summer, interns will help monitor environmental and management effects on soils, crops, and weeds, in organic and sustainable cropping systems.  These internships offer opportunities to develop skills in: 1) data management and entry; 2) cash and cover crop biomass harvesting, nondestructive nitrogen stress indicators, processing, and tissue analysis; 3) soil sampling, processing, and analysis;4) weed identification and seedbank analysis.

     

Ideal applicants should have experience conducting lab and/or field research, good attention to detail and, the ability to work cooperatively in teams. The ideal candidates would work part-time (10-15 hrs/wk) in the spring and full time (40 hrs/wk) during the summer. Candidates available only in the spring or summer will be considered.

For more information about this internship and to apply, please send your resume and unofficial transcripts to Ruth.mangum@ars.usda.gov and cc: steven.mirsky@ars.usda.gov.