Corn Breeding Research Intern presso Beck's Hybrids

Purpose and Scope

Intern will be responsible for learning about and assisting Beck’s Breeding team in inbred and hybrid development. Interns will have the opportunity to take part in several facets of corn breeding, product development, inbred evaluation and research, and the possibility of learning about Double Haploid technology. The internship will start in mid May and last until mid August. The internship may be able to count toward college credit, depending on the candidate’s school curriculum. 

Responsibilities

• Work with the Breeding team taking notes on inbreds. The intern will learn the major aspects of corn breeding, inbred observation, development and testing. The intern will be responsible for managing several inbred testing and observation plots. They will also assist in taking inbred and hybrid notes.
•    Assist with pollination of Beck’s corn breeding nurseries
•    Assist with detasseling Beck’s top cross plots

1. Plant Growth and Development
   • Interns will learn how to monitor test plots for emergence issues, recording and evaluating stand counts, determine stage of growth for development, evaluating and recording overall plant growth.
2. Plant Pathology
   • Learn about the major diseases of corn and evaluate inbreds for their susceptibility
3. Seed preparation
   • Assist with preparing seed for this season’s test plots and nurseries. Interns will package seed and sort into planting order to help prepare for planting
4. Plot Planting and Data Collection 
   • Assist in planting test plots and research nursery. Assist in collecting required notes and other agronomic data
   • Travel with Beck’s staff to outlying locations to assist with planting test plots. The intern will learn how Beck’s manages its research and testing program 

• Other Duties assigned by the members of the Breeding team. Also, any other duties for the benefit of Beck’s Hybrids.

 Job Requirements

 Education and training:

• Sophomore or higher in a college or university program, exceptional Freshman may be considered. We could consider graduate students as well. 
• Only candidates studying Plant Breeding, Genetics, Data Science, Plant Pathology, Agronomy or Ag engineering will be considered
• Must have an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher 
• Farm background and general farm knowledge would be helpful but not required. 
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and insurable driving record as determined by Beck’s automobile insurance policy.
• This is a safety-sensitive position.

 Technical knowledge:

• Possess a positive attitude
• Ability to establish priorities, work independently, work as a team member, and proceed with objectives without supervision
• Ability to work outside and tolerate high temperatures, high humidity, rain, and muddy conditions
• Interns must provide own transportation to Beck facility near Goehner, NE
• Knowledge of R and Python or any software for data analysis would be preferred.
• Ask about local housing availability
• Overtime required
• Overnight travel required