Summer Research Assistant

Application Deadline: 23 February 2026

Department: Research

Employment Type: Temporary

Location: Remote

Compensation: $18.00 / hour

Description

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.

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

Key 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

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

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

Applied

Interview

Hired