The Research Technician Fellowship is intended to welcome undergraduate students who are interested in learning about tree science. No experience is necessary. Fellows will be mentored and trained as they assist in laboratory and/or field operations under close supervision.
To apply, individuals will complete the online application form; while encouraged, a resume and cover letter are not required. A brief true/false survey will be sent immediately to confirm interest, followed by a required questionnaire within one week to determine project interest and allow applicants an opportunity to provide additional details. Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.
Project descriptions:
- Herbarium and Forest Ecology Lab (part-time, September 2026 - May 2027): Trees at The Morton Arboretum record and preserve decades to centuries of information on growth responses to environmental conditions in their annual rings. As part of the Arboretum’s Herbarium, we have a formal archival collection of wood cross-sections of trees that have died at the Arboretum. Student interns will primarily focus on database migration to incorporate wood specimen information into the master Herbarium database (BRAHMS). Interns will also assist with the full cycle of collections development and curation, including specimen cataloging, sample preparation, and digitization.
Special considerations: Interns must be able to lift 30+ pounds with assistance (15 pounds unassisted) and be comfortable using computers. May involve some use of power tools, including belt sanders and potentially saws (after training). Applicants do not need to know how to use these tools already, but must not be afraid to learn.
- Plant Pathology Lab (part-time, September 2026 - May 2027): The Plant Pathology Laboratory offers hands-on experience with molecular, microbiological, and diagnostic techniques used to study plant diseases and soil organisms. Interns will contribute to research focused on the identification, characterization, and ecology of plant pathogens, fungi, oomycetes, nematodes, and other organisms that influence plant health.
Responsibilities may include collecting plant and soil samples, isolating and culturing fungi and oomycetes, extracting and enumerating nematodes, preparing laboratory materials and culture media, using microscopes to observe and quantify organisms, maintaining accurate research records, and assisting with ongoing laboratory and field research projects. Through these activities, individuals have the opportunity to develop practical skills in plant pathology, microbiology, soil ecology, laboratory techniques, data collection, and scientific research methods.
- Root Biology Lab (part-time, September 2026 - May 2027): The Root Biology Lab at The Morton Arboretum works to connect roots, fungi, and rhizosphere processes belowground to whole-plant and ecosystem science. We work in field, lab, and computational settings. This fellowship will expose the student to a mix of all three settings in an effort to build a breadth of experience, likely with emphasis on lab work analyzing enzyme activities from field collected soils. We seek a student with a desire to learn more about roots, fungi, and plants to join our supportive and passionate group.
Essential Functions may include:
Provide support to a scientist for the implementation of research and related projects.
Assist with data and sample collection, sample processing, data analysis, and record keeping on research and related projects.
Operate and maintain laboratory equipment, and perform routine lab maintenance by keeping laboratory and field equipment in good working order.
May maintain living plants in the field and greenhouse.
May voucher and assist with the curation of herbarium specimens.
Demonstrate alignment with the Arboretum’s employee core values
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications: Current enrollment in an Associate or Bachelor’s degree program, with an interest in studying biology, environmental sciences, or a related field. Must be over the age of 16. Organization and independent working skills preferred. Willingness and eagerness to learn necessary field, laboratory, and library research skills required. Experience with database, spreadsheet, and statistical/graphics computer programs, and Google applications beneficial. Depending on the position, may require possession of a valid driver’s license, which is subject to insurability and an annual Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) report.
Success Factors: Ability and willingness to work in laboratory and field environments. Good written and oral communication skills. Clear thought, visual acuity, and manual dexterity needed.
Physical Demands and Work Environment for all positions: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
Physical Demands: Requires some physical activity: walking over varied terrain, bending, limited lifting and carrying (up to 50 lbs. assisted). Use of chemicals may be necessary.
Work Environment: Office environment, Arboretum grounds, field locations, which may include state parks and forest preserves, and/or remote locations. Work is performed indoors and outdoors, in a variety of weather conditions.
Equipment: General office equipment, field and laboratory equipment, including specialized equipment relating to a particular field of research, hand tools.
The Center for Tree Science Integrated Mentorship Program is committed to supporting students and professionals at every stage in their career. As we continue to grow a vibrant and innovative scientific community, flexible work assignments may be available.
Pay is $20/hour for this position. This position is also eligible for a competitive benefits package.
The Morton Arboretum is a champion for diversity, supporting a culture of inclusion that attracts, inspires, and engages people to achieve success. The Arboretum is committed to hire and develop employees based on job-related qualifications irrespective of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or veteran status. The Morton Arboretum is dedicated to complying with our obligations as an equal-opportunity employer. All applicants are guaranteed equal consideration for employment.
