Soil Health Intern

The Soil Health Institute (SHI), a non-profit organization created to safeguard and enhance the vitality and productivity of soil through scientific research and advancement, is seeking to hire a cohort of Soil Health Interns for Summer 2025. This internship program aims to improve access and opportunity by providing both professional and scientific experience through mentorship. 

We are looking for two to three interns to contribute to SHI’s program efforts. Each intern will work with an SHI scientist to assist in developing new knowledge in measuring and assessing soil regeneration through scientific discovery (a research project), sampling for soil health (approx. 1 to 2 weeks onsite soil collection at farms), and professional development through engagement with scientists and agricultural sustainability specialists (in person and virtual).  

Activities include assisting SHI scientists with hands-on soil sampling in cropland; collecting and analyzing soil data; creating graphs; and synthesizing results. Each Intern will be assigned an SHI scientist to work with and perform an independent, hands-on research project. Other activities include engaging in SHI project meetings between SHI team members and with external SHI partners. The goal is to gain exposure to various agricultural professions through in-person and virtual interactions. Interns will also have the opportunity for direct engagement with SHI leadership at SHI headquarters in Research Triangle Park, NC. Upon completion of the internship, each participant will submit a written report and present a seminar on project results.  

The program lasts 9 weeks, June 2-August 1. A stipend of $6,000 (estimated at $15/hour for a 40 hr week) will be paid to each intern.  All travel costs associated with two visits to SHI headquarters (one in June and one in July), as well as soil sampling travel will be paid by SHI.  

This internship is open to the following majors, listed in order of preference: Soil Science, Agronomy, Plant Science, Agricultural Science, Environmental Science, Biology, Botany, and associated environmental sciences degrees. 

To apply, send (1) a copy of unofficial college transcripts, (2) a brief 1/2-page essay (12 pt. font single spaced) describing your interest in the program and career goals, and (3) contact information (email and phone number) of 1 reference to Ms. Chesley Cuicchi  at internshipSHI@soilhealthinstitute.org. Include “internship application” in the email subject. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt.