Positions are available on a seasonal basis beginning in early spring continuing through the summer at the Hudson Valley Research Laboratory in Highland, NY. Scientists employ four to eight college students each summer to assist with field research trials. Internships are available year round.
Students in these positions have unique opportunities for hands-on experience with agricultural research under the tutelage of experienced scientists who are committed to solving applied problems for agricultural producers. The work can be challenging and often involves outdoor work during the heat of summer and repetitive lab procedures that represent the “grunt work” of the scientific enterprise. However, summer employees gain an insider’s perspective of scientific research and may find the experience useful in defining their own career interests.
Job description: Assist the department faculty with research on aspects of tree physiology, nutrition, biology and control of insect, mite species and diseases on apple, pear, peach, plum and cherry trees. Duties include collecting data from field and lab experiments, entering data in computer files, maintaining cultures and greenhouse plant specimens, tree training and pruning, fruit evaluations, and orchard maintenance.
Dates available: Mid-May through at least Aug. 20, with possible extension until Nov.
Hours: 39 hr/wk; usually 8 AM-5 PM, Mon-Fri., with a 1 hr lunch.
Rate of Pay: $9-$11/hr depending on qualifications and experience.
Requirements: Applicants must either have a high school diploma or enrolled as a collage freshman. A valid drivers license is required. Previous experience with field work and use of microscopes will be helpful. Physical demands include extensive periods of microscope work, willingness to work outdoors in a variety of summer weather conditions, lifting and carrying apple crates weighing approximately 50 lb. Applicants must be able to work until Aug. 20.
Contact: Send cover letter, resume of education and work experience to:
Donna Clark
Cornell University’s Hudson Valley Lab
P.O. Box 727
Highland, NY 12528
Fax: 845-691-7231
Phone: 845-691-7151
E-mail: Donna Clark
