61290 Summer Student Intern – Computer Science, Software Engineering or Data Science - Scion

**Location:** Rotorua, New Zealand **Vacancy Number:** 61290 **Fixed Term:** 12 Weeks **Hours:** 40 **Summer Student Intern – BPA AI tool** **Grow Your Research Skills In a World\-class Science Environment** Research organisations generate enormous amounts of valuable information through proposals, project reports, publications and other outputs. However, finding relevant information quickly and efficiently can be challenging. This project will explore the development of an AI\-powered knowledge search tool that enables secure, natural\-language access to BPA's historic information and research records. The internship will focus on understanding user needs, assessing available AI technologies, and defining a minimum viable product that could support future decision\-making, reduce duplication, and help connect knowledge across projects. **What you will be doing \| Ngā whāinga matua** * Collate and organise relevant BPA information and knowledge resources. * Define priority user needs and identify practical use cases for an AI knowledge search tool. * Assess available AI tools, platforms, and technical approaches. * Work with supervisors and colleagues to develop specifications for a minimum viable product (MVP). * Identify how such a product could be brought into existing, self\-hosted, open\-source tools, and summarise the schema and proposed metadata structure. * Assist with developing and testing an initial prototype if project timeframes allow. * Learn from experienced researchers and business professionals in a collaborative environment. **What you will bring \| Ngā tino pūkenga me ngā wheako** To be successful in this role, the minimum qualifications required are: * Currently enrolled in, or recently completed, an undergraduate degree in computer science, software engineering, information systems, data science, business analytics, artificial intelligence, or a related discipline. * An interest in artificial intelligence, data management, information systems, or digital innovation. * Strong analytical and problem\-solving skills. * Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment. * Good written and verbal communication skills. * Motivation to learn new laboratory, nursery, and research techniques. **Why join us?** This internship offers an exciting opportunity to work on a practical AI project with real organisational impact. You will gain experience exploring emerging technologies, engaging with business stakeholders, and helping shape innovative approaches to knowledge management. The project provides exposure to the growing field of AI\-enabled business solutions while developing skills that are increasingly sought after across research, technology, and commercial organisations. 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** * Exposure to a professional research environment. * Practical experience with plant and soil science research, laboratory techniques, and experimental systems. * Mentoring and support from experienced scientists. * Opportunities to strengthen your scientific communication and data analysis skills. * Valuable experience to support future study and career opportunities in science. **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.