Advancing Sustainable Alternatives to Neonicotinoid Insecticides Seed Treatments in Corn and Soybean

The student selected to work on this internship opportunity will help advance sustainable alternatives to neonicotinoid insecticide seed treatments in corn and soybean production. The intern will support Cornell IPM and CCE largest on-farm research and demonstration program ever undertaken, engaging directly with growers across NYS. Responsibilities will include assisting with data collection on crop performance, pest pressure, and economic outcomes from alternative seed treatments and IPM practices, as well as contributing to extension and outreach activities such as field days, grower meetings, and digital communications. The project aims to generate robust, science-based recommendations that reduce reliance on neonicotinoids while maintaining crop productivity and profitability to comply with the Birds and Bees Act taking effect in 2029. By integrating research and extension, this initiative will accelerate adoption of sustainable pest management practices and strengthen grower confidence in IPM alternatives. The intern will gain hands-on experience in applied agricultural and entomology research, stakeholder engagement, and IPM principles, contributing to a statewide effort that aligns with environmental stewardship and regulatory priorities.

Roles and responsibilities 

The intern will play a key role in advancing sustainable alternatives to neonicotinoid seed treatments in corn and soybean production. Primary responsibilities include collecting and organizing data on crop performance, pest pressure, and economic outcomes from on-farm trials across New York State. The student will assist in planning and executing large-scale field days and grower meetings, providing logistical support and engaging with participants to share research findings. Additional tasks include contributing to extension and outreach efforts through digital communications, social media updates, and educational materials for growers. The intern will work closely with Cornell IPM and CCE teams to ensure accurate data reporting and effective communication of project goals. This position offers hands-on experience in applied agricultural research, integrated pest management, and stakeholder engagement within the largest on-farm research and demonstration program ever led by Cornell University.

Qualifications and previous coursework

This opportunity is available to non-graduating students in Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate program in agronomy, entomology, plant sciences, environmental science, or related agricultural field.
• Strong interest in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and sustainable agriculture practices.
• Ability to collect, organize, and analyze field data accurately; familiarity with basic data management tools (Excel, Google Sheets).
• Comfortable working outdoors in farm settings and traveling to multiple research sites across New York State.
• Excellent communication skills for supporting extension activities, including field days, grower meetings, and digital outreach.
• Organizational skills to assist with planning and logistics for large-scale events.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to work collaboratively with growers, researchers, and extension staff.
• Experience with social media or digital content creation for agricultural audiences is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license preferred for travel to field sites.

Learning outcomes 

• Gain hands-on experience in applied IPM/entomology research, including field data collection and analysis of crop performance, pest pressure, and economic outcomes.
• Develop practical knowledge of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles and sustainable alternatives to neonicotinoid seed treatments.
• Learn to organize and support large-scale extension events, such as field days and grower meetings, enhancing event planning and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Improve communication skills through participation in outreach activities, including creating digital content and educational materials for growers.
• Understand the process of translating research into actionable recommendations for farmers and agricultural stakeholders.
• Build proficiency in data management tools and reporting for on-farm research projects.
• Acquire experience working collaboratively with Cornell IPM, CCE educators, and growers across diverse agricultural settings.
• Gain insight into statewide agricultural initiatives and regulatory frameworks like the Birds and Bees Protection Act.
• Strengthen problem-solving and adaptability skills in real-world agricultural environments.