Focus on plant growth promotion and productivity by improving nutrient uptake and enhancing tolerance of stresses like salt and drought by bacterial endophytes. Learn various techniques to characterize bacterial endophytes from our endophyte library, such as plant hormone IAA quantification, phosphate solubilization, nitrogen fixation, siderophore production, ACC deaminase activity, and biofilm formation. Then intern will then learn how to inoculate plants with bacterial endophytes under in vitro and greenhouse conditions and measure plant growth parameters.

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is pleased to announce the 2019 Summer Internship Program. The goal is to provide meaningful on-the-job training and real-world leadership development experiences in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and data analysis/research. Funding for the program is provided by the IALR Foundation. To be considered for the 2019 STEM Internship Program, candidates must be: a High School graduate with plans to attend college in fall 2019; an undergraduate or graduate level college student; OR a recent college graduate, within the last 12 months.

IALR is offering NINE potential projects. Each internship requires 224 hours, representing an eight (8) week commitment. While an IALR internship is NOT an employment situation, the professional expectations are the same.  This is a paid experience; interns will receive a stipend of $2,750, paid in two equal installments ($1,375) after four weeks of demonstrated success. The anticipated weekly time commitment is 28 hours. The IALR Mentor will set the work schedule during the intern orientation. 

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Internship Application via online form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/IALRinternapp2019
Personal Statement 
Financial Need Statement, OPTIONAL 
Resume, OPTIONAL
Transcripts (unofficial are acceptable) of ALL college-level coursework (if applicable)
One reference from an individual capable of evaluating your work/abilities and/or academic experience (share link to online form at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/IALRinternrec2019)
The application must be submitted online along with one reference recommendation. Please submit all other documents by email attachment to hr@ialr.org.  Include “Your Name – Summer Internship” in the subject line.

PERSONAL STATEMENT: As part of the process, each individual is asked to submit a short personal essay (approximately 300 words). The essay should discuss your academic and career plans, STEM/research/marketing interests (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics), motives for applying for the IALR Internship Program, and how you feel this experience will further your intellectual, educational, and career goals.

FINANCIAL NEED STATEMENT (OPTIONAL): This is a short statement (200-300 words) that explains why you would benefit from receiving a paid internship. How are you currently financing your education? What difficulties have you faced when paying for your education? What other forms of financial assistance have you applied for and/or received? Are you having difficulty securing FT employment? (Please note that ALL applicants are welcome to complete this part.)

STEM DISCIPLINES:

Biological Sciences (molecular, cellular, and organismal biology, environmental science, health) 
Computer and Information Science and Engineering (fundamental computer science, computer and networking systems, security, programming/coding and artificial intelligence)
Engineering (bioengineering, environmental systems, civil and mechanical systems, chemical and transport systems, electrical and communications systems, and design and manufacturing)
Geosciences (geological, atmospheric and ocean sciences)
Mathematical and Physical Sciences (mathematics, astronomy, physics, chemistry and materials science; accounting)
Education and Human Resources (science, technology, engineering and mathematics education at every level, pre-K to lifelong learning)
INTERNSHIP TIMELINE:

Deadline for completed application packet:  March 15, 2019 at 4:00pm (EST)

Candidate interviews (face to face or via Skype):  April 1 - 3, 2019 

Intern notification of selection:  April 5, 2019

Mandatory orientation dates (ALL interns):  June 3, 2019 OR June 10, 2019 

INTERNS MUST COMPLETE THEIR TIME COMMITMENT BY AUGUST 9, 2019.  INTERNS ARE ALLOWED ONE WEEK OFF DURING THE PROGRAM FOR UNPAID VACATION (total time frame extended to 9 weeks). EXCEPT FOR THIS ONE WEEK, THE 8-WEEK INTERNSHIP MUST BE SERVED IN CONSECUTIVE WEEKS.