USDA-ARS Biorisk Management Fellowship

About the role

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is seeking a fellow to support a geographically dispersed life science research organization. The fellow will gain experience in biosafety and research oversight activities.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Agency Biosafety Officer and National Program Leaders to support biosafety and biorisk management activities across ARS research programs.
• Gain exposure to U.S. Government policies and frameworks related to Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC), gain-of-function research oversight, NIH biosafety policy, and research security.
• Develop an understanding of scientific review, approval, and tracking processes used for biosafety and research oversight activities.
• Participate in research project reviews to evaluate potential biosafety and biorisk concerns in collaboration with biosafety professionals and program leaders.
• Gain experience balancing open science principles with federal priorities related to controlled access, research security, and risk-informed decision-making.
• Gain experience with biorisk assessment site visits to agricultural research facilities, including application of assessment checklists, preparation of reports, follow-up activities, and evaluation of corrective actions.

Requirements

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a master's or doctoral degree in the relevant fields. Previous life science, veterinary or agricultural science background with knowledge or experience in life science policy, risk assessment, and project management is preferred. Previous exposure to biorisk management tenets (biosafety, biosecurity, etc) relative to laboratory or animal research, greenhouse/headhouse facilities is also preferred. Ability to wear PPE, if necessary.

Qualifications

• The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a master's or doctoral degree in the relevant fields.
• Previous life science, veterinary or agricultural science background with knowledge or experience in life science policy, risk assessment, and project management is preferred.
• Previous exposure to biorisk management tenets (biosafety, biosecurity, etc) relative to laboratory or animal research, greenhouse/headhouse facilities is also preferred.
• Ability to wear PPE, if necessary.

Mentor

The mentor for this opportunity is Joseph Kozlovac (joseph.kozlovac@usda.gov).

Stipend

The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. The anticipated stipend range is $9,200 monthly.

Citizenship Requirements

This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens only.

Point of Contact

Janeen