We know interns are the next generation of innovators so we’re investing in them in a big way!

Our Production Research Internship is a 12-week interactive experience of discovery. You will work on site at our Foundation Seed Production facility located in Decatur, Illinois where you will be exposed to many parts of the business. What’s even cooler? As a key member of this research team, you will work on impactful projects critical to GDM’s growing business.

Here at GDM, you are empowered to learn our business that will set you up for success as you develop your career to become a successful seed professional. We are inviting forward thinking and courageous future leaders to embrace an entrepreneurial approach and start their journey of growth.

Internship Dates: May 18, 2026 – August 7, 2026

What to Expect?

In this 12-week developmental internship, you’ll hone important skills, such as presenting, networking, and project management. In addition, you will learn what it’s like to work in research and gain exposure to fundamental production processes. Throughout your internship, you’ll receive regular feedback, guidance and coaching to help you develop the skills you need to succeed. You will also have an opportunity to participate in cross-functional job shadowing where you will learn different aspects of the business to further your knowledge even more!

What YOU will do:

• You will gain hands-on experience by: collecting information and analyzing corn inbred lines, learning about integrated pest management, how to do seed inventory, stand counts, review flowering data, plant measurement and much more! This will deepen your knowledge and give you a more holistic view of the production research process!
• You will develop relationships throughout the organization with multiple resource partners, cohorts, and leaders. Building relationships is the core of what we do!
• Engage in a variety of impactful projects critical to the business. You will have an opportunity to develop and complete a project tailored to helping the company thrive and be innovative and report the results back to leadership. This will test your project management skills!
• Develop new and creative solutions to meet company and departmental goals. Innovation is what will make you stand out!

Who YOU are:

• Highly self-motivated: You are eager to learn, ask questions and collaborate with others to learn our business
• Strong time management skills: You have the ability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, and learn and adapt to various business areas
• Integrity: You are honest, ethical, and trustworthy.
• Agile: You are able to switch between departments and tasks quickly and easily
• Dependability: You are reliable, responsible and can be counted on
• Excellent Communication Skills: You are an effective communicator both in writing and speaking. You thrive with collaborating in a team setting
• Strong Work Ethic: You work hard and have a “get things done” mentality
• Professional attitude: You are professional and courteous.
• Great leadership qualities: You are willing to take charge and demonstrate your leadership skills, especially during assigned projects.

Qualifications AND Requirements:

• Prior internship or work experience highly desired
• Must be willing to relocate if not in the local area
• Ability to lift up to 70 lbs
• Ability to walk fields
• Ability to work outdoors 60% of the time
• Ability to travel up to 30% of the time
• Have a valid driver’s license and meet Motor Vehicle requirements

Salary for this position is $18/hr