Undergraduate Internship: DNA barcoding of host plants of Pedicularis densiflora

Intern II - DNA barcoding of host plants of Pedicularis densiflora

The undergraduate intern will work with the Curator of Flowering Plants and a graduate student to help discover the host plants used by Pedicularis densiflora, a parasitic plant distributed on both sides of the Central Valley of California and ranging from Oregon to Mexico. The data collected will help determine how P. densiflora has adapted to local floras throughout its range, and whether host plant use is contributing to the genetic divergence of P. densiflora populations into new species.

The intern will work primarily on extracting DNA from root samples, with the opportunity to learn DNA barcode amplification and sequencing, and contribute to data analysis and manuscript preparation. The intern will conduct DNA extractions from root and leaf samples, amplify and sequence barcode loci, and conduct bioinformatic analyses for sample identification. Training will be provided for all tasks.

Applicants should provide their CV and a brief statement describing their previous lab experiences and interest in this position. These documents may be uploaded into the original application

Salary of $17.5 per hour @ 35 hours per week. Start date of June 30th -September 30th, 2025.

Applications must be received by June 16, 2025. Applicants chosen for interviews will be contacted by June 20, 2025.

Applicants must apply through the Field Museum website at www.fieldmuseum.org/careers. Applications through other websites will not be considered.

PLEASE READ: *If you apply for multiple positions on the Field Museum website, please make sure to delete your previous resume and cover letter and upload the latest version of your resume and cover letter that is relevant to the job you are applying for, every time you apply. This will help our hiring managers access the correct documents. Please note that removing the resume and cover letter will not delete any previously submitted resumes and cover letters.

The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.

At the Field Museum, we are dedicated to making our career website and recruitment process accessible to everyone. If you encounter any difficulty when using or accessing our online application, or if you need a reasonable accommodation for completing your application, participating in interviews, or any other part of the selection process, please reach out to us at recruitment@fieldmuseum.org.