Poultry Nutrition Internship – 2 spots at Agricultural Research Council (ARC) – Animal Production division in Irene, Pretoria. The internship is for recent graduates who want to dig into real research about using yellow mealworms as a green protein source for chickens and other livestock. You’ll work on experiments, gather data, and help design better ways to grow these insects. If you’re curious about science that can make food production cleaner and cheaper, this is a good fit.
Job details
- Apply deadline: 30 January 2026
- Location: ARC‑AP, Irene, Pretoria, South Africa
- Reference: AP100
- Positions: 2 interns
- Type: Internship (contract)
About the Employer
The Agricultural Research Council is a public research organization that works to improve farming and food production in South Africa. Their Animal Production arm looks at how animals can be raised more sustainably, including what we feed them. This internship sits inside that research group and will let you learn about both animal science and insect biology.
What You’ll Do
The main focus is on yellow mealworm biology and production systems. You’ll learn how to:
- Run experiments on mealworm growth and health.
- Create and test breeding plans that make more insects with less waste.
- Explore different food options (substrates) that could lower costs and boost sustainability.
- Keep clean records, measure results accurately, and manage the lab space safely.
In short, you’ll be a hands‑on researcher helping to turn a new protein source into something that could feed the world.
What We’re Looking For
Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree, BTech, or advanced diploma in one of these areas:
- Entomology (the study of insects)
- Animal Science
- Agriculture
Other key skills include:
- Working well by yourself and with a team.
- Clear writing and speaking so you can share your findings.
- Being ready to try new techniques and think creatively.
How We Treat Employees
- Pay that matches the internship’s level.
- All hires need a clean security clearance.
- ARC values diversity and will favour applicants from groups that the Employment Equity Plan lists.
- All staff are treated fairly and equally.
- Permanent roles, if offered, start with a six‑month probation period.
- ARC reserves the right to not hire if a better fit is found.
What to Send With Your Application
You must include these items:
- A cover letter explaining why you want this role.
- A detailed CV with at least three recent referees.
- Copies of your degrees and certificates that have been certified.
- A copy of your driver’s licence.
- If your degree was earned abroad, a SAQA evaluation report.
Incomplete applications will not be looked at. If you don’t hear back within four weeks of the deadline, you can consider the application unsuccessful.
Questions?
Call Dr L. Selaledi at (012) 672 9324 if you need more details.
How to Apply
Click here to apply for the ARC Poultry Nutrition Internship 2026. Make sure you attach all the documents listed above and submit before the 30 January deadline.
Why It Matters
This internship gives you a chance to work on a real problem: creating a cheaper, more environmentally friendly protein for animals. You’ll learn lab skills, data analysis, and teamwork. These are useful for any science or engineering career. Plus, you’ll be part of a project that could help feed more people without harming the planet.
Apply now to jump into the world of sustainable animal nutrition and insect research. Good luck!