USDA-ARS Spring/Summer 2026 Research Internships in Entomology
To submit your application, scroll to the bottom of this opportunity and click APPLY.
A complete application 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. 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 recommendations
All documents must be in English or include an official English translation.
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*Applications are 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), located in Maricopa, Arizona.
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: Multiple opportunities are available across three labs for motivated students interested in learning how the scientific process is used to solve agricultural problems caused by insect pests. Our respective research programs are focused on using cutting-edge techniques to better understand the molecular and physiological factors driving crucial biological processes and behaviors in different insects.
Learning Objectives: Participants in the internship program will gain invaluable first-hand experience under the mentorship of PhD-level scientists in experimental design, application of various entomological and molecular research techniques, and data analysis. Opportunities for active participation include:
- Experimental Support: Help in rearing biological specimens, maintaining cultures, field sampling, and sample preparation.
- Data Management: Record observations, enter data into analysis software packages, and help in preliminary statistical analyses.
- Applied Research: Help with microscopy imaging and basic molecular techniques.
At the end of the internship, participants will have gained real-world lab skills and experience with common scientific techniques, mentorship from researchers who are leaders in their respective fields, and a deeper understanding of the types of careers possible in science.
Mentor(s): The mentor for this opportunity is Jimmy Hull (joe.hull@usda.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research, please contact the mentor(s).
Anticipated Appointment Start Date: March 1, 2026. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.
Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of ARS and is contingent on the availability of funds.
Level of Participation: The appointment is part time.
Participant Stipend: The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. The anticipated stipend range is $360 - $500 weekly.
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.PacificWest@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.
The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received an associate's or bachelor's degree in the one of the relevant fields. Degree must have been received within the past three years, or anticipated to be received by 6/1/2026.
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