Data Science, Computational Mathematical Sciences, Biotechnology and Bioenterprise, Biology, Biological Sciences, Biochemistry and related
-3rd Year Students
-4th Year Students- Seniors
-ASU Online Barrett Honors Students (fully remote work)
-4th Year Students- Seniors
-ASU Online Barrett Honors Students (fully remote work)
266
Tempe
The Hernandez Lab at the Desert Botanical Garden is a collaborative team of researchers, students, interns, and volunteers dedicated to the study and conservation of desert plant biodiversity, with a particular focus on cacti and agaves, two of the plant groups under the highest threat of extinction. We integrate cutting-edge DNA sequencing and bioinformatic analyses with innovative conservation tools, an international network of collaborators, and a strong local community of committed volunteers to generate knowledge that guides the protection and long-term persistence of species. We believe plant conservation is both a scientific imperative and a shared responsibility, and our work centers on understanding genetic diversity, adaptation, and resilience in desert plants; especially in the face of climate change. Through mentorship, research, and hands-on programs such as the Saguaro Initiatives, we connect science, community, and action to safeguard desert ecosystems for future generations.
To learn more about our work, visit https://www.hernandezlab-dbg.com/
Project Location: Desert Botanical Garden and remote work
To learn more about our work, visit https://www.hernandezlab-dbg.com/
Project Location: Desert Botanical Garden and remote work
More than ever, genomic data is transforming how we understand how plants function, evolve, and respond to environmental change. These data are also key to predicting how plant species will be affected by climate change and to designing better conservation strategies.
At the Hernández Lab, we work across the full spectrum of genomic analyses. Opportunities range from foundational tasks such as data curation, organization, and quality control, to advanced analyses including population genomics, landscape genetics, and genomic vulnerability assessments.
We welcome students, interns, and collaborators at all levels of expertise who have computing skills and a strong interest in the study and conservation of wild plants. This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience with real genomic datasets while contributing to meaningful conservation research.
** Plant Conservation Bioinformatics Specialist Honors Student, Intern or Collaborator **
Minimum requisites:
- proficient in unix/linux
- general knowledge in genetics, population genetics, evolution, phylogenetics
- basic coding skills and shell scripting
- be able to self-learn with guidance of senior students
- available 5-10 hours a week (more if desired)
- must have a personal computer and access to good internet
- participate in a weekly advisory meeting and a quarter whole team meeting
Benefits
- Professional mentoring from researchers and conservation scientists at Desert Botanical Garden
- Training in the use of High-Performance Computing Cluster and access to all ASU computing services
- Training in the implementation of novel methods in bioinformatics and genomics (genome assembly and annotation, phylogenomics, population genomics)
- Participation and interaction with an international group of students and collaborators
- If desired, development of a project with publishable results.
- Working from home at self-pace
Students who successfully participate in and complete bioinformatics projects at the Hernández Lab are included as coauthors on resulting scientific publications, in accordance with their contributions. Committed students may also have opportunities to participate in scientific conferences and present their work (for example, Botany 2026).
At the Hernández Lab, we work across the full spectrum of genomic analyses. Opportunities range from foundational tasks such as data curation, organization, and quality control, to advanced analyses including population genomics, landscape genetics, and genomic vulnerability assessments.
We welcome students, interns, and collaborators at all levels of expertise who have computing skills and a strong interest in the study and conservation of wild plants. This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience with real genomic datasets while contributing to meaningful conservation research.
** Plant Conservation Bioinformatics Specialist Honors Student, Intern or Collaborator **
Minimum requisites:
- proficient in unix/linux
- general knowledge in genetics, population genetics, evolution, phylogenetics
- basic coding skills and shell scripting
- be able to self-learn with guidance of senior students
- available 5-10 hours a week (more if desired)
- must have a personal computer and access to good internet
- participate in a weekly advisory meeting and a quarter whole team meeting
Benefits
- Professional mentoring from researchers and conservation scientists at Desert Botanical Garden
- Training in the use of High-Performance Computing Cluster and access to all ASU computing services
- Training in the implementation of novel methods in bioinformatics and genomics (genome assembly and annotation, phylogenomics, population genomics)
- Participation and interaction with an international group of students and collaborators
- If desired, development of a project with publishable results.
- Working from home at self-pace
Students who successfully participate in and complete bioinformatics projects at the Hernández Lab are included as coauthors on resulting scientific publications, in accordance with their contributions. Committed students may also have opportunities to participate in scientific conferences and present their work (for example, Botany 2026).
Tania Hernandez
Tempe