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N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative

Professional Development Opportunities

Featured Opportunities
Events and Conferences
Internships and Fellowships
Other Opportunities
Additional Resources

Have an event or opportunity you would like to feature here and in our weekly student emails? Contact Alex Goodnight.

LAST CALL OPPORTUNITIES

2027 N.C. PSI BRIDGE Symposium

The N.C. PSI is hosting the 4th annual BRIDGE (Bridging Research Ideas for Greater Extension) Symposium. Graduate students from any department are encouraged to apply. Industry leaders, NC Extension representatives, growers, postdocs and faculty across the university will be present to hear from the teams and talk at round tables with the participants following the presentations.   At the 2027 BRIDGE Symposium, graduate students from different disciplines who are not currently collaborating on research (not in the same lab, degree program, or research project) will come together to build new interdisciplinary partnerships. Each participant will briefly present their own research, and then, as a team, they will develop and present a proposal for a collaborative research project that combines their expertise. The most innovative and compelling team presentations will receive awards.  

Application Deadline: November 13, 2026
Symposium Date: February 11, 2027

Learn more and apply
Man speaking into a microphone in front of a large screen
Cole Hammett presents his interdisciplinary research ideas at an N.C. PSI BRIDGE Symposiu.

NC State Sustainable Futures Fellows

Undergraduate and graduate students eager to imagine, explore and develop sustainable solutions are encouraged to apply to the Sustainable Futures Fellows program, which engages interdisciplinary student teams in a unique 15-week exploration of the sustainability challenges and opportunities across key sectors of the economy, such as energy, agriculture, forestry, manufacturing, transportation and more. Fellows receive a $1,600 scholarship stipend for the Spring semester and have the potential to apply for supplemental funding to continue research through the summer.

Application Deadline: November 15, 2026 by 11:59 pm

Learn more and apply 

Social Hour: Digital Twin at The Corner

Join the NC State DELTA team to learn how this innovative group supports multiple stakeholders throughout the campus ecosystem, including their latest collaboration project exploring Digital Twins on campus.

Event Date: November 19, 2026 from 4-6 pm
Event Location: Raleigh Founded Centennial in Partners Building I

Learn more and RSVP 

Global Sustainability Challenge

The Global Sustainability Challenge is an annual challenge where teams of 1-6 students design, build, and showcase real-world sustainability solutions, supported by a Stanford-led collective of leading institutions and experts worldwide. This competition offers student a total prize pool of more than $35,000 plus visibility and mentorship, and is open to any undergraduate, graduate, or PhD student.

Application Deadline: November 22, 2026

Learn more and apply 

Featured Opportunities

Botanical Society of America (BSA) Student Chapter at NC State

The Botanical Society of America (BSA) has a newly established Student Chapter at NC State and they are looking for members regardless of their academic discipline or prior experience with plant science. The chapter focuses on three core areas: ethnobotany, plant–insect interactions, and agriculture & sustainability. The hope is to bring together individuals from diverse academic backgrounds through guest speakers, workshops, field trips, community outreach, professional development opportunities, and social events.

Interested in Membership?
Greenhouse worker in lab coat examines plants
Grayson Cothran tends plants perhaps the greenhouse’s most popular bay, one where students get a chance to tend a variety of plants and learn about greenhouse operations.

Engineering Education Symposium 2027

Designed to kick off the spring semester, this symposium will bring together faculty, staff, graduate students, and partners from across the College of Engineering, the Engineering Education Program, Wolfpack Engineering Unleashed (WEU), and the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE).

Submission Deadline: December 1, 2026
Event Date: January 8, 2027 from 9am -3 pm
Event Location: Duke Energy Hall

Read more 

The Edward Gorey House 2026 Envelop Art Contest

The artist Edward Gorey ornamented his correspondence with elaborate drawings. Each year, the Edward Gorey House on Cape Cod runs an all-ages envelope art contest to submit envelopes decorated in the annual theme. This year’s theme is “The Utter Zoo.” The winner and finalists of each category recieve a nifty prize bundle in the mail. Even if you’re not the best artist, send in an envelope if you feel inspired!

Submission Deadline: December 1, 2026 by 4:00 pm

Learn more and submit 

Simons Postdoctoral Fellowships in Plant Biology 

These postdoctoral fellowships support candidates who intend to pursue a career in basic research on fundamental problems in plant biology. This program aims to support researchers seeking to understand the inner workings of plants at the level of the whole organism or below. Applicants should have received their Ph.D. or equivalent degree no earlier than three years before the fellowship application deadline. Applicants who have not yet received their Ph.D., but who will have it by the award start date, are eligible to apply.

Submission Deadline: December 3, 2026 by 12:00 pm EST

Learn more and apply 

Apply to Present at The National Conference on Undergraduate Research

The National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR) is dedicated to promoting undergraduate research, scholarship and creative activity in all fields of study by sponsoring an annual conference for students. Unlike meetings of academic professional organizations, this gathering of student scholars welcomes presenters from all institutions of higher learning and from all disciplines.

Abstract Submission Deadline: December 4, 2026
Event Date: April 12-14, 2027
Event Location: Grand Rapids, MI

Learn more and submit 

UNC Presidential Scholar Program

The UNC System Presidential Scholar Program is a unique opportunity for recent graduates to gain first-hand experience in public higher education leadership and administration. Over the course of eleven months, Presidential Scholars work closely with staff at the UNC System Office, rotating through key departments to support day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives.

Application Deadline: December 4, 2026

Learn more and apply 

2027 Farm Robotics Challenge: Student Teams Invited to Compete

Put your skills to work on real agricultural challenges! The 2027 Farm Robotics Challenge invites student teams to work with growers and ranchers to design, build, and test solutions using robotics, AI, automation, and other technologies. Gain hands-on experience, connect with industry leaders, and compete for over $200,000 in prizes and startup support, including a $25,000 Division I first-place award and the opportunity to compete for a $100,000 SAFE investment through the new Startup pathway. Teams of 5–20 students from four-year colleges and universities are eligible.

Registration Deadline: December 13, 2026

Learn more and register 

Events and Conferences

Graduate School Workshops

Crafting stories from your research can help provide a presentation structure that can be adapted for different audiences. As a part of the Translating Research for Impact series, this workshop will utilize the INFUSE method as a way to approach organizing and creating stories to highlight the significance of your research for written and oral communication situations. Register here.

The skills you develop in graduate school are highly valued by employers. Learn how research, problem-solving, communication, and analytical thinking translate into success in the corporate world. You’ll leave with practical insights on how to showcase your skills and confidently navigate today’s job market. Register here.

Get an in-depth walkthrough of the Interstride portal, including our newest features, key tools, and best practices for finding opportunities. You’ll learn how to navigate the platform with confidence and use it effectively throughout your job and internship search. Register here.

Undergraduate Research Workshops

Whether you’re in a lab or a classroom, you’re often expected to work alongside others. This workshop will uncover some of the common obstacles that teams encounter when working together. Explore different tips and tricks for how to create effective, efficient, and welcoming team environments for all members, and learn how to tackle challenges as a team! Register here.

Professional research conferences are a great way for undergraduates to expand their network, knowledge, and communication skills. However, finding, applying to, and navigating them can be tricky. The Office of Undergraduate Research will walk you through how to find conferences that are right for you, the application/registration basics, and how to get the most out of the experience. Attendees will also learn about OUR-specific resources for undergraduate students interested in presenting their work. Register here.

What is graduate school like? Join us for an interactive and engaginge panel discussion with students in different graduate programs on NC State’s campus! Register here.

Science on Tap!

Science on Tap! takes place at Lynnwood Brewing Concern (1053 E Whitaker Mill Rd) on the second Tuesday of every month from 7:00 – 9:00 pm. Grab a beer, meet local scientists, and hear the stories behind their coolest discoveries—no jargon, just great talks and good company.

Learn more and register to attend 

AI Hot Topics at NC State

The AI Hot Topics monthly series, hosted by the Data Science and AI Academy, is a dynamic forum designed to foster dialogue and collaboration on the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. Whether you’re a seasoned AI practitioner, a curious scholar or simply interested in the transformative potential of AI, this series offers a unique opportunity to connect with leading experts and contribute to meaningful discussions. The AI Hot Topics Series takes place monthly at Raleigh Founded on Centennial Campus (1017 Main Campus Dr.) from 8:45 – 9:45 am.

Learn more and register to attend 

NC State Career Fairs

Explore upcoming career fairs and events offered by various colleges and disciplines across NC State!

Office of University Interdisciplinary Programs

Discover OUIP’s list of interdisciplinary events across NC State

NC State Make-A-Thon

NC State Make-A-Thon is an annual student sustainability competition that challenges interdisciplinary teams to develop creative solutions to real-world sustainability problems. Students research challenges, brainstorm ideas, design and build prototypes, then pitch their solutions to judges for a chance to win a share of $12,000+ in prizes. Open to NC State students from all majors and disciplines, Make-A-Thon offers hands-on experience in innovation, design thinking, teamwork and problem-solving.

Registration Deadline: January 20, 2027
Event Dates: January 28-31, 2027

Learn more and register
Three students at a cluttered table, one with a laptop and two working on model harvester.
2025 N.C. PSI Hackathon

Conferences

NC State Field Days

Explore commodity-specific events across the state

Learn more and register 

AGU Annual Meeting

December 7-11, 2026
San Francisco, CA

Learn more and register 

The International Plant and Animal Genome Conference (PAG 34) 

January 8-12, 2027
San Diego, CA

Learn more and register 

2027 Maize Genetics Meeting

March 11-14, 2027
Chicago, IL

Learn more and register 

WRRI Annual Conference

March 23-24, 2027
Raleigh, NC

Learn more and register 

AI in Ag Conference 2027

March 30 – April 1, 2027
Lexington, KY

Learn more and register 

National Conference on Undergraduate Research

April 12-14, 2027
Grand Rapids, MI

Learn more and register 

Save the Date: Waste to Worth Conference

April 12-16, 2027
Raleigh, NC

Learn more and register 

IEEE / CVF Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition Conference 

June 20-25, 2027
Seattle, WA

Learn more and register 

ASPB Plant Biology 2027

July 31 – August 3, 2027
Albuquerque, NM

Learn more and register 

2027 GRC: Single-Cell Approaches in Plant Biology

August 8-13, 2027
Portland, Maine

Learn more and register 

IEEE Conference on Computational Intelligence in Bioinformatics & Computational Biology 

August 31 – September 3, 2027
Milan, Italy

Learn more and register 

Upcoming PSI Events

All PSI Events
Dec 09

Wednesday9:30 AM

PSB Fall Coffee Social

Internships and Fellowships

2027 Flagship Pioneering Fellowship

This 12-week, paid summer Fellowship allows early career scientists to combine their scientific and technical instincts, unconstrained creativity, and the latest AI tools to generate novel scientific and technology concepts that push beyond existing scholarship and challenge dogma. Fellows then learn to iterate, challenge, and shape these ideas into unreasonable, compelling hypotheses with the potential to produce pioneering new ventures. The Flagship Pioneering Fellowship requires a full-time, in person commitment from June 7th – August 27th 2027. Fellows receive a stipend for their participation.

Application Deadline: December 15, 2026

Learn more and apply
Student holds a laptop underneath a large metalilc robot designed to take photos of hundreds of potted plants outdoors
Letitia Santos, a graduate student in biological and agricultural engineering and at 2024 FFAR Fellow, uses remotely sensed data and machine learning techniques to measure, monitor and report weed and soil conditions. Photo by Becky Kirkland.

GRAD-AID for Ag Program

GRAD-AID for Ag is a two-year graduate training program that integrates AI, fundamental plant science, and applied agricultural research, preparing students to accelerate the translation of discoveries into real-world agricultural solutions. Selected students will receive a $37,000 annual stipend to support their studies. Current or potential NC State graduate students in any plant science field, data science, computer science or related fields are eligible to apply.

Application Deadline: January 15, 2027

Learn more and apply
Grad-AID for Ag NRT logo

NC Conservation Network Campus Organizing Fellowship

Campus Organizing Fellows will receive first-hand experience working for a statewide environmental nonprofit. This fellowship is 6-10 hours per week of on-campus organizing in both the fall and spring semesters. This is a paid position that will include public outreach to students and the campus community regarding environmental issues such as forever chemical pollution (PFAS), climate action, and environmental justice efforts in North Carolina. Fellows will also engage in non-partisan get-out-the-vote efforts on campus during election season.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Positions are open until filled.

Learn more and apply 

FFAR Fellowship

The FFAR Fellows Program offers leadership and professional development training to PhD students studying food and agriculture-related sciences. Over the 3-year period members of each cohort of 30 fellows attend four in-person meetings plus monthly virtual sessions, create and execute annual professional development plans, and network and establish mentor-mentee relationships with industry scientists and others outside of academia.

Application Deadline: March 1, 2027 at 11:59 pm ET

Learn more and apply 

2027 CERSA Internships

The Center of Excellence for Regulatory Science in Agriculture (CERSA) helps prepare the next generation of scientists and regulatory professionals by connecting students with hands-on internship experiences. Our interns have worked with government regulators, industry leaders, non-profits, and academic institutions. These internships help students build skills, expand professional networks, and contribute meaningfully to regulatory work that supports North Carolina’s agricultural and research communities. Students in the program will be offered a stipend by CERSA.

Application Deadline: March 19, 2027

Learn more and apply 
Man in a research lab

SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program

Offers STEM students who are currently pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D. a full scholarship, internships, annual stipends, and guaranteed employment with the Department of Defense.

Applications Deadline: December 1 at 5:00 p.m. EST
The SMART Program accepts applications annually from August 1 to December 1.

Learn more and apply 
Oak Ridge National Labs

Student Opportunities at Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Enhance your expertise and collaborate with many of the nation’s leading science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) experts as you complete your research. Opportunities are available for current undergraduate and graduate students to participate as members of research teams at ORNL. All internships come with a stipend.

Learn more 
Women wearing goggles and gloves in a research lab

Micro-Internships for Graduate Students & Postdocs

Micro-internships are short-term, paid, professional assignments that allow you to explore career paths, build your network, and prepare for the transition to industry. These micro-internships allow you to be flexible with your graduate studies, while still being intentional in your career development. These unique projects are posted at all times of year by companies of all sizes,

Learn more and apply 

Other Opportunities

NC State Sustainability Career Development Program

Step into an exciting journey with the NC State Sustainability Career Development Program, where you can explore and build your career in sustainability on your own terms. This unique initiative is designed for NC State students, offering a flexible, “choose your own adventure” approach to career development. Program Enrollment is ongoing and you can join at anytime of year. Whether you’re passionate about protecting the planet, creating innovative solutions, or leading change, this program lets you tailor your experiences to match your interests and goals.

Learn more and enroll
Two people discuss research on hops grown on trellises
Student Gwen Casebeer (left) and researcher Jeanine Davis look over hops growing at Mountain Horticultural Research and Extension Center in Henderson County.
Small group talking in a conference room

The Graduate School’s Professional Development Workshops

The Graduate School offers an array of career preparedness, communication skills, leadership, teaching, and wellness programs year round. There are both in-person and virtual workshops offered.

Explore 
students at career fair

NC State LanchPad

NC State Innovation and Entrepreneurship has developed an incubator program to support early-stage undergraduate and graduate student startups.

Learn more and register 
Three people talking in a work space

NSF I-Corps Program

The I-Corps Program at NC State offers a NSF training program aimed at helping scientists and engineers extend their ideas, research and inventions into the marketplace. This program consists of a four-session course focused on entrepreneurship and exploring the commercial viability of innovations.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Program Dates Vary.
*If accepted, your team will be placed in the next available cohort.

Learn more and apply 

Resources

ePACK

ePACK is NC State’s online platform for openings (internship, leadership development, and full-time job opportunities), upcoming events, online tools, and more that are currently available for you.

Explore ePack
Cooper howling wolf sculpture near greenery and benches

Career resources

The Arabidopsis Information Resource (TAIR) Job Board

International and domestic postdoctoral, faculty, research, field technician positions and more are listed for those interested in plant science careers.

Visit 

Plantae’s Career Center

Search for jobs, internships and mentorships in the US and abroad across a variety of industries and types of institutions.

Visit 

Ag Career Job Board

Search by sector, specialty and career type for job opportunities in every stage of the food system.

Visit 

National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) Job Board

Job opportunities in ag engineering and all other engineering disciplines.

Visit 

NC State Career Development Center

Take advantage of university career resources available to all NC State students

Explore 

N.C. PSI Certificate Programs

N.C. PSI offers two certificate programs, one for Ag Data Science and the other for Regulatory Science in Agriculture.

Discover 

Have an event you would like advertised here and in our weekly email? Contact Alex Goodnight.