This October, students joined the Career Connections Center for a Career Trek to two University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Research and Education Centers: The Citrus Research and Education Center (CREC) in Lake Alfred and the Mid-Florida Research and Education Center (MREC) in Apopka.
Throughout the day, students gained a deeper understanding of how research centers provide tailored support, from field trials to educational outreach. This experience sparked career ideas, inspired action steps, and a greater appreciation for the intersection of science, sustainability, and service.
🍊 Citrus Research and Education Center (CREC), Lake Alfred
Established in 1917, CREC is the world’s largest citrus research center and home to the largest citrus library, with over 15,000 volumes dedicated to citrus science. The center employs more than 200 faculty and staff who focus on supporting Florida’s citrus industry through cutting-edge research and extension services.
Students learned how scientific research extends beyond UF’s main campus, with 12 IFAS Research and Education Centers across the state, each addressing region-specific needs. Opportunities for students include part-time OPS roles, student assistantships, and summer research projects, many of which can lead to graduate-level research positions.
“Reach out and share why you want to do this work and visit in person if you can,” advised one of the speakers. “That personal connection makes a difference.”
Students also had the opportunity to experience agricultural innovation firsthand through a tour of the space and panel, hearing directly from scientists and staff about projects that blend creativity, data, and real-world impact:
- Upcoming AI Labs focused on predictive modeling and crop resilience
- 3-D Insect Models that help growers identify species and manage pests
- Print and Media Initiatives such as newsletters and magazines that share research with stakeholders
- Plant Breeding and Snail Identification projects that support biodiversity and food security
- Global and Sustainable Perspectives that include collaborating with partners in Educator, Hawaii, and beyond, showing that agricultural research can open doors to international experiences and global impact.
🌿 Mid-Florida Research and Education Center (MREC), Apopka
At MREC, the focus shifts to ornamental horticulture, pest management, and urban agriculture. The center plays a major role in extension education, from helping communities earn pest-control certifications to supporting growers like Costa Farms and Agri-Start.
Students explored how research integrates with technology through programs including Plant Science and Geomatics, using drones and LIDAR mapping to analyze urban environments and support sustainable land use.
Additional tour highlights included:
- Greenhouse Facilities: explored active growing spaces and learned about the process of plant trials and controlled environment research
- Plant Breeding Lab: gained insight into the day-to-day work of plant scientists, who contribute to 10–12 research projects each year focused on developing resilient, high-performing crop varieties
- Model House for Problem-Solving: learned how simulated home environments are used to demonstrate pest management strategies and support community outreach
Students also connected with a panel of professionals, including a:
- Farm Supervisor
- Communications & Marketing Specialist
- Human Resources Representative
- Water Resource Extension Agent
- Lab Manager
- Associate Professor
- Administrative Specialist
All shared their career paths and emphasized the importance of transferable skills such as analytical thinking, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn.
“In interviews, don’t just say what you did,” one panelist shared. “Explain how you did it and tell the story behind the work.”
During the conversations, students also became more familiar with opportunities such as the Extension Internship Program (a paid, competitive program with mentorship), as well as UF’s Active Learning Program, which allows students from any major to earn credit while completing research projects alongside faculty mentors.
🌾 Key Takeaways for Students
- Explore UF/IFAS opportunities – Reach out to faculty whose research aligns with your interests.
- Apply your skills – Whether in science, communications, or analytics, there’s a place for your strengths in research and extension.
- Think globally, act locally – Research in agriculture and sustainability connects Florida to international partners.
- Tell your story – Use your experiences to demonstrate problem-solving, initiative, and curiosity in interviews.
