Tissue Culture Rotational Internship

At Walters Gardens were passionate about growing exceptional plants and exceptional people. Each summer we welcome a group of interns to join our team and gain firsthand experience in the science art and business of perennial production.

During your internship youll find a supportive environment that values curiosity teamwork and growth. Our internships are designed to provide:

• Hands-on training in real-world greenhouse and laboratory settings
• Rotational learning across multiple departments to build a well-rounded skill set
• A personalized project to deepen your expertise and make a meaningful contribution
• Mentorship and networking opportunities with leaders in the industry

Interns consistently tell us the program is more than just an internship its a summer of learning connection and fun. Youll gain practical skills explore career paths in horticulture and plant sciences and leave with not only knowledge but also friendships and memories that last well beyond the season.

About the Internship
This 12-week summer program offers hands-on experience in the full process of perennial plant production with a special focus on tissue culture. Interns rotate through key departments learning from experts in each area while also working on an individual project tailored to their interests. By the end of the summer youll have a strong understanding of how healthy plants move from lab to greenhouse and into large-scale production.

What Youll Do

• Rotate through different areas of production including:
  Motherstock Greenhouse & Virus Lab maintaining clean healthy plant material
  Tissue Culture Lab learning sterile techniques and plant multiplication
  Greenhouse Production & Planting Lines observing large-scale operations in action
  Acclimation Range transitioning young plants from lab to greenhouse conditions
  Integrated Pest Management (IPM) supporting plant health and quality
• Shadow and collaborate with teams in other departments
• Complete an individual project designed with your supervisor to apply what you learn and contribute to ongoing research or production goals
• Build valuable mentorship connections gain professional experience and explore career paths within horticulture and plant sciences

Why Youll Love It
Interns often say the best part of the summer is the people. Youll be surrounded by a welcoming knowledgeable team eager to share their expertise. No question is off-limits we love teaching and training. The environment is supportive fun and full of opportunities to learn from real-world experts. Many interns leave not only with valuable career experience but also with lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.

Program Details

• 12-week internship (Summer 2026 flexible start and end dates)
• Full-time 40 hours per week
• Pay: $18.51/hour
• Monthly housing stipend for out-of-area students
• Opportunities to attend team meetings workshops and networking events
• Application Deadline: January 9 2026 (early applications encouraged as spots may fill before the deadline)
• Applications reviewed on a rolling basis

Who Should Apply

• Current students enrolled in an accredited college or university
• Rising seniors or those in their final year of study (preferred)
• Majors in Plant Science Horticulture Biology Agriculture Biotechnology or related fields encouraged
• Curiosity willingness to learn and a hands-on mindset are key to success