Summer 2026 Beekeeping Internship
Want to help “Save the Bees”?
Internship Opportunity:
Join an enriching summer experience working alongside an experienced Cornell Master Beekeeper. This internship offers hands-on training in the care and management of honey bee colonies, research participation, and a deeper understanding of pollinators.
Responsibilities:
BEEKEEPING–Monitor colony health, manage swarming, create splits and check for pests & pathogens. Help maintain biosecurity by washing equipment and sweeping up bees.
RESEARCH–Assist with studies on selective breeding traits, monitoring Varroa mite pests, and documenting honey bee and native bee use of floral resources.
HONEY HARVESTING–Uncap, spin & extract, bottle and label honey.
POLLINATOR GARDENS–Maintain pollinator gardens.
Qualifications:
Must be punctual and reliable,
Attention to detail with the ability to record data accurately.
Capable of lifting at least 30 pounds to your waist height.
Must not be allergic to bees.
REQUIRES TRANSPORTATION: To/from farm.
CLASS YEAR: Open to all class years.
Application:
Submit résumé and cover letter to musantefarm@gmail.com, including:
Name & Phone Numbe
School Name, Major, Year
Interest in Honey Bees and This Internship
Relevant Data Recording or Research Experience
Reasons This Internship is a Good Fit
Any Honey Bee Allergy information
Transportation Availability to/from the Farm
Dates of Availability
Supervisor: Amy Musante, MS
Amy holds degrees in Zoology and Anthropology from UMass and has researched for the Smithsonian, UMASS Entomology, and the US Forest Service. Her graduate work at UC focused on Host-Parasite Coevolution, earning a Master’s in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. Amy employs a scientific approach to beekeeping, utilizing evidence-based management and natural selection in her breeding program. She is a passionate educator, mentor and taught courses in animal behavior, vertebrate ecology, and evolution. Additionally, she is a Vermont Certified Beekeeper and holds a Master Beekeeper’s Certificate from Cornell University.
Location:
Musante Farm, Located in the heart of Berkshire County, in Dalton, Massachusetts.
Musante Farm is a family- owned farm dedicated to breeding Berkshire County Honey Bees and educating students and beekeepers. We focus on sustainable practices to produce delicious raw honey, honey bee nucleus colonies, organic, pasture-raised chicken eggs, and hay. Located in the senic town of Dalton, our farm includes two bee yards with 50-75 colonies, sourrounded by rolling pastures and lush forestland. We take pride in fostering a deep understanding of beekeeping while providing high-quality, natural products to our community. Wahconah Falls State Park in just 2 minutes away.
