A complete application package consists of:

• An application
• Transcript(s) – For this opportunity, an unofficial transcript or copy of the student academic records printed by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institution systems may be submitted.  Selected candidate must provide proof of completion of the degree before the appointment can start.  Proof must be sent to ORISE directly from the academic institution including graduation date and degree awarded.  All transcripts must be in English or include an official English translation.  Click Here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
• A current resume/CV
• Two references – While two references are requested, applications will be considered without reference information.  It is preferred that a complete application package contains a minimum of one reference.

If you have questions, send an email to USDA-ARS@orau.org.  Please include the reference code for this opportunity in your email.

Post bachelor's research opportunity in wheat quality is available with the the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS),  Hard Red Spring and Durum Wheat Quality Laboratory (HRSDWQL), Cereal Crops Research Unit (CCRU) in Fargo, North Dakota.

The Hard Red Spring and Durum Wheat Quality Laboratory, Cereal Crops Research Unit, evaluates processing and end-use quality traits of breeders’ experimental lines of wheat relative to physical and biochemical attributes and genetic and environmental influences.  The projects identify wheat lines that are of superior milling, baking, and processing quality before they are considered for commercial release. 

The research opportunity is designed to provide an interested individual with in-depth experience conducting experimental milling trials and to provide additional experience in wheat/durum quality analysis.  Specifically, the candidate will have opportunities to learn wheat milling using a variety of mills to include a full scale commercial mill.  The candidate will have opportunities to learn additional techniques in the evaluation of kernel, milling, dough rheology, baking, and pasta processing quality traits of hard spring and durum wheat.  The candidate must be able to work in a highly dusty and noisy environment and must also be able to stand for long periods of time.  The candidate must also be able to lift at least 50 lbs.

The appointment is full-time for approximately 12 months, and may be renewed for a total of five years based upon recommendation of the ARS and availability of funding.  The selected applicant will receive a yearly stipend in the amount of $45,500 as support for their living and other expenses during this appointment as well as a yearly health insurance stipend supplement in the amount of $5,679.  The participant must show proof of health and medical insurance.  Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE. 

The participant will not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, USDA, ARS, or any other office or agency.  Instead, the participant will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.

While participants will not enter into an employment relationship with ARS, this position requires a pre-appointment check and a full background investigation.

This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens.

For more information about the ARS Research Participation Program, please visit the Program Website.

To be eligible, applicants must have a Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Cereal Science, Agricultural Sciences, Agronomy, or other related fields.

Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge in the use of general laboratory equipment (e.g. analytical balances, pipettes, ovens, etc);
• General knowledge of analytical instrumentation pertaining to cereal quality;
• Basic knowledge in wheat milling;
• Accurate record data keeping and entry;
• General knowledge of laboratory safety;
• Highly motivated to learn;
• Excellent attention to detail;
• Ability to work in team;
• Microsoft Office software package (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
   

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: Bachelor's Degree received within the last 60 month(s).
• Discipline(s):
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (4 )