With plant biodiversity as a unifying theme, research at the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University by staff and visiting scientists from around the world builds on a broadly integrative program that will advance knowledge about how plants function, how they have evolved and diversified over time, how they shape ecosystems, and how they respond to a rapidly changing planet. The DaRin Butz Foundation Research Internship Program at the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University gives undergraduates in the life sciences a unique opportunity to experience research from start to finish while gaining training and connections among scientific colleagues. DaRin Butz Interns will not only conduct research, but will also develop their project with their advisors and be guided through the process of sharing their research through written reports and oral presentations, an important component of scientific research. Interns will participate in activities with the other DaRin Butz Interns, including a weekly reading group and tours of the Arboretum’s diverse collections. (FAQs)

Program dates: June 2 – August 8, 2025

The DaRin Butz Foundation Research Internship Program pays a stipend of $6250 for the ten-week period. Interns will be reimbursed up to $550 for the costs of one round trip travel between the internship site location (Boston metro area) and their home base. Reimbursement will be either the actual airfare or mileage (at rate determined by the IRS).

During the ten-week program, DaRin Butz Interns will:

• Work full time for the full ten-week period.
• Perform hands-on-research on a project that the intern helps develop.
• Participate in activities with the advisor’s research group.
• Actively participate in weekly reading group and other weekly activities with the other interns.
• Prepare and write research proposal under the guidance of their Arboretum Advisor.
• Attend the end-of-program research symposium and give a 10-minute presentation on their research.

To be considered for an internship, apply online by Feb 15.

Online applications should include the following:

• Cover letter. In 1-2 pages, your cover letter should state clearly the following: (i) interest in the program, (ii) interest in the selected research topic, (iii) career objectives and how the internship will help to achieve these goals.
• Resume.
• Unofficial transcript. An unofficial or unencrypted electronic transcript from the institution where the applicant is currently enrolled is preferred. A PDF copy or screenshot of courses/grades is acceptable.
• One letter of recommendation. As part of the online submission, you must send a request to the referee to submit a letter of recommendation (via the request section). The referee will be automatically sent an email with a link to an online submission form where they will upload a letter of recommendation. It is highly recommended that you contact your referee prior to sending the request. Please inform the referee to expect an email from admin@communityforce.com with instructions for submitting a recommendation letter. Each referee must upload his/her letter of recommendation via the link by Feb 15.

About Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University

The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University achieves excellence in scholarship and contributes to the advancement of society as an international center for the study of plants. Integrating eminent living and archival collections for discovery and dissemination of knowledge to the students of Harvard University, local educational institutions, and the public, the Arnold Arboretum is a premier destination for deepening understanding and appreciation of plants, horticulture, and biodiversity.Occupying 281 acres, the Arboretum’s living collection of trees, shrubs, and woody vines is recognized as one of the most comprehensive and best documented of its kind in the world. The living collection is supported by comprehensive curatorial documentation, herbaria containing more than 1.3 million specimens, extensive library and archival holdings, and a 43,000-square-foot state-of-the-art research center. These facilities and holdings, along with 75 full-time staff, provide the basis for research and education by Harvard faculty and students, Arboretum scholars, and visiting scientists from around the world. Investigations focus on examining plant diversity from genomic, developmental, organismic, evolutionary, and ecosystem perspectives.

Connections working at Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University