A complete application consists of:

• An application
• Transcripts – Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts
• A current resume/CV, including academic history, employment history, relevant experiences, and publication list
• Two educational or professional references

All documents must be in English or include an official English translation.

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

A research opportunity is available with the the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research (NCAUR), Mycotoxin Prevention and Applied Microbiology Research Unit (MPAMRU) in Peoria, Illinois.

The participant will join a team to conduct research in characterization of plant-fungal interaction and identification of important genes that may be used to develop novel methods to reduce mycotoxin contamination and Fusarium head blight (FHB) in wheat. The learning objectives for this opportunity include training and experience in a variety of molecular biology techniques useful in studying plant-pathogen interactions. The successful candidate will identify effectors in F. graminearum and determine their roles in pathogenesis. The selected individual will be directly involved in growing fungal pathogen, generating fungal mutants, growing plants and performing disease evaluation, collecting samples and conducting molecular analysis.

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. The initial appointment is for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of ARS and is contingent on the availability of funds. The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. The appointment is full-time. Participants do not become employees of USDA, ARS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits.

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, legal permanent residents (LPR), and foreign nationals.  Non-U.S. citizen applicants should refer to the Guidelines for Non-U.S. Citizens Details page of the program website for information about the valid immigration statuses that are acceptable for program participation.

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

All candidates should have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in Plant Pathology, Biological Sciences, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field.

Knowledge of molecular biology is highly preferred as well as lab experience with basic molecular techniques such as DNA isolation, PCR reaction and cloning.  Excellent interpersonal communication skills, ability to communicate effectively in English, and ability to work independently and in a team environment are desired.

• Degree: Bachelor's Degree.
• Discipline(s):
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (5 )