The Electric Plant Company (www.electricplant.co) is pioneering the future of plant sciences by exploring the intersection of physiology, data, and technology. Our research laboratory, located at NewLab on the Michigan Central camps in Detroit, MI supports cutting-edge experiments designed to better understand plant function and resilience. We’re looking for dependable and detail-oriented Research Interns to keep our plants, sensors, and experiments running smoothly. This paid role is part-time with flexible scheduling and runs from January through March.
Key Responsibilities
- Take plant physiology measurements, including:
- Chlorophyll fluorescence
- Electrophysiology recordings
- Pot weighing and soil moisture tracking
- Identify plants affected by pests, disease, or show signs of stress.
- Perform general plant care and facility clean-up to ensure a healthy research environment.
- Maintain, troubleshoot, and replace sensors, dataloggers, and related instrumentation.
- Ensure reliable operation of both plants and instruments across large experimental setups (hundreds of plants).
- Record observations and measurements consistently and accurately.
Requirements
- Strong dependability — commitment to showing up consistently through the duration of the internship is critical
- Attention to detail and ability to make precise, repeatable measurements.
- Able to work in a greenhouse/research environment, performing standing and reaching tasks in warm and cold climates.
- Ability to manage tasks across a large number of plants in a time-efficient manner.
- Experience in Plant Sciences, Biology, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field and familiarity with basic laboratory research methods preferred.
Why Join Us?
- Gain hands-on research experience at the intersection of biology and technology.
- Work independently while contributing to high-impact plant science experiments.
- Flexible scheduling that can fit around academic commitments.
About The Electric Plant Co:
The Electric Plant Co, founded by Justin Mast & Lee von Kraus and located at Newlab Detroit, is at the cutting edge of environmental and plant health monitoring.