Post Graduate Biological Science Research Opportunity

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.
• A current resume/CV

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

A post graduate biological science research opportunity is available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Dale Bumpers Small Farm Research Center (DBSFRC) in Booneville, Arkansas.

The selected applicant will collect measurements and biological samples on beef cattle, forages, soil associated with management of grass fed beef research, assist with decisions on health and reproduction, and culling. The incumbent will enter data into Excel spreadsheets, be current on scientific literature concerning grazing livestock.

The appointment is full-time for one year and may be renewed based upon recommendation of the ARS and availability of funding.  The selected applicant will receive a stipend as support for their living and other expenses during this appointment.  Stipend rates are determined by ARS officials, and are based on the applicant’s academic and professional background.  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-employment check and a full background investigation.

This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens.

This is an equal opportunity program open to all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, mental or physical disability, covered veteran’s status or genetic information.

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

Eligible applicants must have received a Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited college or university in animal sciences or a closely related field within five years of the desired starting date. Knowledge or experience in laboratory analysis associated with beef cattle nutrition and forage and soils is desirable. A broad professional knowledge or experience of the scientific theories and principles which underlie animal metabolism and forage assessment is highly desirable.

Preferred skills include:

• Knowledge of methods, procedures, and techniques commonly used in laboratories engaged in forage, agronomy, and ruminant nutrition research.
• Knowledge of the basic principles of biological sciences (e.g., plant pathology, plant and animal physiology, biochemistry, and chemistry) to perform routine or recurring analysis, record instrument readings, collect samples, and take measurements.
• Skilled in keeping exact and detailed records of data obtained from experiments. The selected applicant has the ability to operate a personal computer using word processing and/or data-base management software.
• Ability to use tractor and implements in the field.
• Ability to schedule and independently carry out work assignments.
• Knowledge of safe laboratory procedures.

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: Bachelor's Degree.
• Discipline(s):
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (4 )