*Applications may be reviewed on a rolling-basis.

ARS Office/Lab and Location: A research opportunity is currently available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), at the Bee Research Laboratory located in Beltsville, Maryland.

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is the U.S. Department of Agriculture's chief scientific in-house research agency with a mission to find solutions to agricultural problems that affect Americans every day from field to table. ARS will deliver cutting-edge, scientific tools and innovative solutions for American farmers, producers, industry, and communities to support the nourishment and well-being of all people; sustain our nation’s agroecosystems and natural resources; and ensure the economic competitiveness and excellence of our agriculture. The vision of the agency is to provide global leadership in agricultural discoveries through scientific excellence.

Research Project: The USDA-ARS Bee Research Laboratory (https://www.ars.usda.gov/northeast-area/beltsville-md-barc/beltsville-agricultural-research-center/bee-research-laboratory/) seeks STEM undergraduate students and recent graduates to participate in a grant-funded Research Scholars program to conduct research with Bee Research Laboratory scientists. This program is focused on studying parasites and pathogens of honey bees to help reduce their impacts on honey bee health. Honey bees are important for many aspects of US agriculture, from crop production to small- and large-scale honey production. Research projects can include both field and laboratory experiments, and the mentor will consult with the participant to identify the most fulfilling research project. Experience with honey bees is not essential but skills in safe laboratory practices are preferred. The participants will be paired with BRL scientists during the summer and will have the opportunity to continue participation into the Fall of 2024.

Learning Objectives: Through this opportunity, the participant will:

• Be part of world-class research improving the health of honey bees.
• Enhance their preparedness for scientific, technological, and medical careers.
• Establish connections with USDA scientists and subject matter experts that promote long-term relationships between themselves, researchers, and other professionals in the field.

Mentor(s): The mentor for this opportunity is Jay Evans (jay.evans@usda.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s).

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: Summer 2024.  Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.

Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for six months, but may be extended upon recommendation of ARS and is contingent on the availability of funds.

Level of Participation: The appointment is part-time, or full-time, and is negotiable.

Participant Stipend: The participant(s) will receive an annual stipend commensurate with educational level and experience.

Citizenship Requirements: This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens only.

ORISE Information: This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and ARS. Participants do not become employees of USDA, ARS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.

Questions: Please visit our Program Website. After reading, if you have additional questions about the application process please email ORISE.ARS.Northeast@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.

Qualifications

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing a bachelor's degree, or have received a bachelor's degree, in one of the relevant fields.

Preferred skills:

• Experience with genetic laboratory techniques including DNA and RNA extraction, quantification using the polymerase chain reaction, and sequence analysis.
• Experience with honey bees ideal.
• Willingness to be trained in consistent and complex laboratory procedures.