Description *Applications are reviewed on a rolling-basis. ARS Office/Lab and Location: Three research opportunities are currently available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), located in Kearneysville, West Virginia.
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. The mission of the ARS National Center for Cool and Cold Water Aquaculture (NCCCWA) is to enhance the nation's aquaculture production by developing improved germplasm and technologies that increase farm efficiency, product quality, and environmental sustainability. Research focuses primarily on rainbow trout and encompasses genetics, genomics, physiology, aquatic animal health, and aquaculture engineering. Ultimately we envision growth in US aquaculture production that supports recreational activities and provides a healthy seafood option for consumers.
Research Project: The overall goal of the project is to 1) analyze the genetic response to selection for fillet yield and disease resistance in rainbow trout and 2) characterize the physiological mechanisms regulating performance traits. To support this research, the participant will collaborate as a team member to gain hands-on experience with the husbandry and management of rainbow trout at different stages of development and learn data collection procedures and techniques that help advance the genotyping and phenotyping of selectively bred rainbow trout. Under the guidance of a mentor, the participant will also develop proficiency with analytical laboratory techniques such as DNA isolation and gene variant and gene expression analysis. The resultant data will help advance knowledge of the biological mechanisms regulating nutrient partitioning in rainbow trout.
Learning Objectives: Through this opportunity, the participant will gain knowledge and appreciation for how research is performed to develop solutions that support problems affecting rainbow trout production and thus contribute to advancing production efficiency.
Mentor(s): The mentor for this opportunity is Beth Cleveland ( ). If you have questions about the nature of the research, please contact the mentor(s).
Anticipated Appointment Start Date: Summer, 2024. 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 flexible and can be full time or part-time.
Participant Stipend: The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience.
Citizenship Requirements: This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens, Lawful 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.
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 and include the reference code for this opportunity.
Qualifications The qualified applicant should be currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in one of the relevant fields. Applicants who have already received their high school diploma must be accepted/enrolled in a STEM degree program.
Eligibility Requirements Degree: Currently pursuing a Bachelor's Degree. Academic Level(s): K-12 Students or Undergraduate Students. Discipline(s): Chemistry and Materials Sciences (12 ) Communications and Graphics Design (2 ) Computer, Information, and Data Sciences (17 ) Earth and Geosciences (21 ) Engineering (27 ) Environmental and Marine Sciences (14 ) Life Health and Medical Sciences (51 ) Mathematics and Statistics (11 ) Physics (16 ) Science & Engineering-related (2 ) Social and Behavioral Sciences (29 ) How to Apply Connect with ORISE...on the GO!Download the new ORISE GO mobile app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to help you stay engaged, connected, and informed during your ORISE experience and beyond!
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 recommendations All documents must be in English or include an official English translation.
