About the Company:

ProFarm is an agricultural technology company on a mission to improve the food we eat in a way that benefits the grower, the consumer, and the entire industry. Headquartered in Davis, California, with a global footprint spanning Michigan to Finland, we deliver field-proven, biological solutions for pest management and plant health. By bridging the gap between sustainability and profitability, ProFarm helps modern growers optimize crop yields while protecting the planet. Learn more and join our mission at ProFarm.com.

About the Role:

ProFarm Group is seeking a motivated intern to join our Plant Health & Microbial Sciences department. In this role, you'll support scientists working on the development of microbial biocontrol agents and plant growth promotion solutions. You'll gain hands-on experience across microbiology, molecular biology, plant pathology, and plant biology — making this an ideal opportunity for students looking to build real-world skills in a fast-paced biotech environment. 

Responsibilities 

Laboratory & Greenhouse Support 

• Assist with setup and takedown of bioassays in greenhouse, growth chamber, and lab settings, including experiments using soil, perlite, and other planting substrates 

• Support seedling and plant growth stage experiments, collecting data using various phenotyping methods 

• Prepare materials for experiments, including culture media, buffers, and treated or untreated seed 

• Maintain a clean, organized lab and greenhouse environment (glassware, growing containers, benches, and floors) 

• Assist with general greenhouse upkeep and maintenance 

Microbiology & Molecular Biology 

• Culture and isolate microorganisms using general, selective, liquid, and solid media 

• Assist with general microbiology and molecular biology techniques 

• Perform DNA and RNA extractions from microbial and plant samples 

• Perform quantitative PCR and conventional PCR; analyze results via gel electrophoresis 

• Analyze samples using Qubit and NanoDrop instrumentation 

• Record and organize experimental data and results accurately 

Additional duties may be assigned as needed. 

Schedule & Hours 

We're looking for an intern who can contribute approximately 12–20 hours per week. Your schedule will be established with your supervisor, and we're happy to work around your classes and other commitments. Example shifts include Mon/Wed/Fri 10:00 AM–3:00 PM or Tues/Thurs 9:00 AM–1:00 PM — but we'll collaborate to find a rhythm that works for both you and the team. 

Qualifications 

Required: 

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in biological sciences; a focus in microbiology, plant pathology, plant biology, biotechnology, or a related field is preferred 

• Willingness to work across multidisciplinary projects spanning microbiology, plant pathology, and plant biology 

• Comfort working in greenhouse and lab settings that may involve soil, dust, and plant material 

• Commitment to contribute at least 15 hours per week during the school year 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) 

• Strong verbal and written communication skills 

• Professional, positive attitude with solid time management and organizational skills 

• Ability to occasionally lift up to 30 lbs., independently or with assistance 

Preferred: 

• Hands-on lab experience through coursework or a previous internship 

• Adaptable, curious, and collaborative — someone who enjoys learning and working as part of a team 

ProFarm is an equal-opportunity employer. A pre-employment background check will be required.