Post-doctoral Researcher in Avian Influenza

Organization
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Reference Code
ARS-SEPRL-2016-0181
How to Apply

A complete application package consists of:

  • An application
  • Transcript(s) – 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.

Description

Avian influenza is one of the most important diseases of poultry worldwide and caused an outbreak in the US in 2014-2015 that cost $3.3 billion.  Understanding the mechanisms of virus spread is critical to controlling the virus. 

A postdoctoral research opportunity is available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory (SEPRL) in Athens, GA.  The incumbent will be engaged in a project to evaluate the pathobiology of avian influenza virus and factors associated with virus spread such as species adaptation and other selection pressures in the field using model systems and a multi-disciplinary approach.  The desired appointment start date is July 15, 2016. 

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.

Qualifications

A PhD in animal science, poultry science, virology, microbiology, biotechnology, biology, wild-life biology, medical microbiology, veterinary microbiology, pathology or a related field is required.

Required skills:  Basic microbiological lab skills, for example: RT-PCR, DNA and RNA extraction, aseptic technique, ELISA, serology, cloning, cell culture. 

Preferred skills include experience with: 

  • Animals
  • Basic bioinformatics
  • Infectious diseases

The selected applicant must successfully complete a background check prior to appointment.

Eligibility Requirements
  • Degree: Doctoral Degree received within the last 60 month(s).
  • Discipline(s):
    • Life Health and Medical Sciences (7 )