Graduate students

The Soil Contamination Lab at the Institute for Soil, Water and Environmental Science is looking for highly motivated and enthusiastic graduate students! If you are interested in studying soil contamination, soil reclamation and/or waste recycling and processing, please reach out to Dr. Lonia Friedlander ([email protected]). We are especially interested in bringing on students interested in research-based M.Sc. degrees.

Company Description Volcani Institute is the largest agricultural research institute in Israel, dedicated to advancing agriculture and food sciences. Its core mission is to support farmers by developing practical solutions to real-world challenges, conducting cutting-edge research, and creating innovative technologies. The institute is organized into six specialized centers covering Plant Sciences, Animal Science, Plant Protection, Soil, Water and Environmental Sciences, Agricultural Engineering, and Postharvest and Food Sciences. Graduate students joining Volcani Institute benefit from working in a multidisciplinary environment that connects scientific inquiry with the needs of the agricultural sector.

Role Description Graduate students at Volcani Institute engage in full-time research projects that contribute to the institute’s agricultural and food science mission. Day-to-day tasks include designing and conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, reviewing scientific literature, and collaborating with senior researchers and peers across different disciplines. Students may assist in fieldwork, laboratory work, and technology development, as well as contribute to research reports, publications, and presentations. This is an on-site role based in Beit Dagan, requiring regular presence at the institute’s facilities and active participation in research group meetings and institutional activities.

Qualifications

• Enrollment in or completion of a relevant graduate program (e.g., agriculture, plant sciences, animal science, environmental sciences, food sciences, engineering).
• Strong research skills, including experimental design, data collection, data analysis, and critical review of scientific literature.
• Ability to work in laboratory and/or field settings, follow safety protocols, and handle research equipment and materials responsibly.
• Effective written and oral communication skills for documenting methods, preparing reports, and presenting findings to diverse audiences.
• Collaborative mindset, with the ability to work in multidisciplinary teams and engage respectfully with colleagues and stakeholders.
• Organizational and time-management skills to handle multiple tasks, meet project timelines, and maintain accurate research records.
• Proficiency with relevant digital tools (e.g., statistical software, data management tools, office productivity applications) is an advantage.
• Curiosity for agricultural innovation, willingness to learn new methods, and commitment to ethical, inclusive research practices.