USDA-ARS Perennial Ryegrass Abiotic Stress Genetics Postdoctoral Fellowship

About the role

Reference Code: USDA-ARS-PWA-2026-0377. A research opportunity with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Forage Seed and Cereal Research Unit in Corvallis, Oregon. The appointment is full‑time, initially for one year (renewable contingent on funding and ARS recommendation), with an anticipated start date in Fall 2026 (flexible). Participants are not employees of USDA, ARS, DOE or the program administrator and do not receive employment‑related benefits.

Responsibilities

• Assist in research on the genetics of heat and drought tolerance in perennial ryegrass under field and lab conditions.
• Collect and analyze trait measurements related to plant development, physiology, and seed yield under different irrigation regimes at two field sites.
• Conduct a Genome Wide Association Study to identify genetic variants associated with those traits.
• Evaluate root growth under heat and drought conditions in the laboratory.
• Develop mapping populations to identify genes contributing to specific growth patterns.

Learning Objectives

• Develop research strategies specific to obligate outcrossing grass species.
• Gain experience measuring traits associated with plant development, physiology, and seed yield.
• Learn genetics and genomics approaches for marker‑trait associations.
• Improve scientific communication and collaboration skills.

Mentor

Joseph Gallagher (joseph.gallagher@usda.gov)

Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in a relevant field received within the past five years (or within the last 48 months as noted).
• U.S. citizenship required.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with plant genetics.
• Experience with plant abiotic stress research.
• Experience with field, greenhouse, and laboratory research.

Pay

Stipend: $6,928.92 per month.

Schedule

Full‑time participation.

Benefits

Proof of health insurance is required for participation; health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.