USDA-ARS Food Pathogen Research Fellow

About the role

The USDA-ARS Food Pathogen Research Fellow will conduct research at the Eastern Regional Research Center (ERRC) to determine the ecological niches, persistence, and physiological responses of pathogens as affected by food. The fellow will generate data on the origin, succession, enumeration, and genetic constitution of target pathogens, focusing on Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella, and Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli, as well as avian influenza virus. They will monitor pathogen presence, persistence, and control in foods under various biological, chemical, and physical interventions.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and inoculate raw, further processed, and ready-to-eat foods with target pathogens.
• Monitor pathogen fate during processing and storage.
• Conduct microbiological and molecular analyses of pathogens under food-relevant conditions.
• Collaborate with food safety professionals in government, academia, and industry.
• Develop relationships with stakeholders and clients in both private and public sectors.

Requirements

The ideal candidate should be pursuing or have received a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree in relevant fields such as Food Microbiology, Food Technology, Food Safety, Molecular Biology, Food Science, Bacteriology, Biology, or Animal Science. Preference will be given to candidates who are U.S. citizens.

Qualifications

• Pursuing or having received a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree in relevant fields.
• Strong background in food microbiology, food technology, food safety, molecular biology, food science, bacteriology, biology, or animal science.
• Experience with pathogen monitoring and control in foods.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse teams.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Skills

• Food microbiology
• Food technology
• Food safety
• Molecular biology
• Food Science
• Bacteriology
• Biology
• Animal Science

Benefits

The fellow will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience.

Pay

The stipend amount will be determined based on the participant's educational level and experience.

Schedule

The appointment length is initially one year but may be renewed upon recommendation of ARS and is contingent on the availability of funds.

Contact

Please visit our Program Website for more information. Questions about the application process can be emailed to ORISE.ARS.Northeast@orau.org.