61403 Summer Internship Wai Kānuka: Taonga Food Product Development - Plant & Food Research - Careers at Science New Zealand

Summer Student Internship – Wai Kānuka: Taonga Food Product Development
Location: Palmerston North, New Zealand
Vacancy Number: 61403
Fixed Term – 12 weeks
Hours: 38

Grow your research skills in a world-class science environment

Are you passionate about food innovation, product development, and creating value from Aotearoa New Zealand's unique natural resources?

We are seeking a Summer Student Intern to join our Wai Kānuka project, a collaborative initiative focused on developing unique and appealing beverage products using kānuka-based ingredients. This is an exciting opportunity to gain practical experience in food product development while contributing to research that combines science, innovation, and the potential of taonga species.

This project involves engagement with mātauranga Māori, taonga species, and relationships with iwi and Māori communities. As a result, applicants with an interest in mātauranga Māori, indigenous food systems, or aspirations to work at the interface of science and Māori knowledge are encouraged to apply. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified tauira. Knowledge of, or connections with iwi in the Top of the South, including Ngāti Kuia, would be advantageous given the nature of the project and the stakeholder relationships involved.

What you will be doing | Ngā whāinga matua

As part of a multidisciplinary research team, you will:

• Assist with the formulation and development of innovative kānuka-based beverage products.
• Design and undertake laboratory and product development trials.
• Produce beverage samples and collect data for analysis.
• Participate in sensory and consumer preference evaluations to support product refinement.
• Contribute to food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory considerations throughout product development.
• Work closely with researchers and project partners to support project outcomes.
• Gain exposure to working alongside Te Rūnanga ō Ngāti Kuia Trust and understanding the role of taonga species within food innovation.
• Present findings and contribute to reporting on project outcomes.

What you will bring | Ngā tino pūkenga me ngā wheako

To be successful in this role, the minimum qualifications required are:

• Currently studying towards an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Engineering, Biotechnology, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• An interest in food product development, processing, and innovation.
• Has basic knowledge of Taonga ingredients and foods.
• Strong organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• A willingness to learn new laboratory, processing, and research techniques.
• An interest in the application of science to support innovative taonga food products.
• Availability to travel to Nelson during the internship period if required.

Why join us?

This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in beverage product development and applied food research. You will work alongside leading scientists and project partners while developing practical skills in experimental design, food processing, consumer evaluation, and product innovation.

Through collaboration with Te Rūnanga ō Ngāti Kuia Trust, you will also gain exposure to the intersection of science, mātauranga Māori, and food innovation, contributing to the development of high-value taonga food products.

A copy of the Position Description is available for you to view once you click on the 'Apply' button.

What you will get | Ngā hua o tēnei tūranga

• Hands-on experience working on a real-world food innovation project.
• Exposure to beverage formulation, product development, and consumer research.
• Opportunities to work alongside experienced scientists and technical experts.
• Experience contributing to research that supports the development of high-value taonga food products.
• Exposure to collaborative research involving iwi partners.
• A supportive and collaborative learning environment.
• Valuable professional experience to enhance your future career opportunities in food science, technology, and research.

We welcome applications from students who are enthusiastic about science, innovation, and making a meaningful contribution to research that benefits Aotearoa New Zealand. If this sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you.

About us | Ko wai mātou

We've built something new. AgResearch, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, Plant & Food Research and Scion have come together to form the Bioeconomy Science Institute. We are more than 2200 people working to support the growth and resilience of the bioeconomy in New Zealand and beyond.

Together, our world-class science can do more to advance innovation in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, aquaculture, biotechnology and manufacturing; protect and enhance ecosystems from biosecurity threats and climate risks; and develop new bio-based technologies and products.

For further details about the Bioeconomy Science Institute can be found on our website, watch this Bioeconomy Science Institute short clip.

Ready to Apply? | Kua rite koe ki te tono?

If you're enthusiastic about science and keen to apply your studies in a research setting, we'd love to hear from you. Bring your curiosity, motivation, and willingness to learn, and join us for an exciting summer research experience.