Building a skilled regional research workforce is essential to the future of South Australia’s grains industry.

Hart’s Regional Internship in Applied Grains Research provides an entry pathway for agricultural science graduates to develop practical research, extension and communication skills through hands-on experience in regional South Australia. Established in 2016, the program combines field research, industry mentoring and professional development to build the next generation of grains researchers while strengthening regional research capability.

Project description: 

Supported by the SA Drought Hub, the internship provides graduates with practical experience across the full research cycle, from trial planning and establishment through to data collection, analysis, reporting and extension. Interns work alongside Hart Field-Site Group, SARDI, growers and industry partners while developing independent research projects and building the technical and communication skills needed for careers in applied grains research.

The 2026 internship included structured mentoring, professional development, statistical training, industry events, grower engagement and both field- and laboratory-based research projects. The intern also contributed to extension activities, including the development of practical grower resources on net form net blotch, while participating in forums, workshops and seminars focused on improving drought resilience and crop management.

Key achievements and results: 

Now in its eleventh year, Hart’s Regional Internship has established itself as one of South Australia’s leading pathways into applied grains research. Since commencing in 2016, the program has supported ten interns, with almost all graduates remaining in agriculture and most progressing into regionally based research positions. This strong retention rate demonstrates the program’s success in building long-term research capability for the grains industry.

The 2026 internship continued this legacy through a structured program combining technical training, mentoring and practical experience. The intern completed orientation, professional development, RStudio statistical training, workshops, webinars and extension activities before commencing both field- and laboratory-based research projects. Working across cereals, pulses, oilseeds and pasture systems, the internship provided experience in trial planning, crop establishment, data collection, analysis, reporting and grower engagement.

A defining feature of the program is its strong industry connection. Interns work directly with growers, researchers and advisers, attend industry forums and crop walks, and develop independent projects that address practical farming challenges. This exposure ensures research remains grounded in regional production systems while building the confidence, networks and communication skills needed for successful research careers.

The program continues to receive strong endorsement from industry leaders, growers and former interns. Participants consistently highlight the breadth of experience gained across field, laboratory and extension activities, while past graduates credit the internship with preparing them to step directly into research careers. Collectively, the program strengthens South Australia’s regional research workforce, builds lasting connections between researchers and industry, and supports the long-term sustainability of applied grains research.

Further information:

Read the 2026 regional internship in applied grains research impact report here.

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