USDA-ARS Postdoctoral Fellowship Opportunity: Floral Chemistry, Pollinators, and Microbe Interactions

About the role

This opportunity offers a comprehensive educational and training experience centered on the intricate world of floral chemistry and its ecological impacts. The project explores the chemical-mediated interactions between flowers, pollinators, and microbes, with the goal of identifying floral metabolites that influence the microbial communities occurring in flowers and/or pollinator health and behavior.

Research Project

The research project involves researching the chemical composition of floral tissues (e.g., petals, anthers) and rewards (i.e., nectar and pollen). Advanced analytical techniques, including high-resolution mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography, and gas chromatography, will be utilized to identify novel bioactive chemicals. Bioassays with various microorganisms (both pathogenic and benign) and insects (pollinators and florivores) will be conducted to understand how floral chemistry influences their interactions. Experiments will take place in diverse settings, including controlled laboratory environments, greenhouse facilities, and natural field conditions.

Mentor(s)

The mentor for this opportunity is Caitlin Rering (caitlin.rering@usda.gov).

Learning Objectives

Participants will acquire valuable hands-on experience and develop specialized skills such as: - Research and investigation into the chemical composition of floral tissues. - Conducting analyses utilizing advanced analytical techniques. - Designing and implementing bioassays with various microorganisms and insects. - Participating in experiments conducted across diverse settings. - Gaining extensive training in cutting-edge analytical instrumentation and methodologies. - Collaborating with a team of scientists.

Citizenship Requirements

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

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.

Qualifications

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a doctoral degree in the following relevant fields: Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Ecology, Phytochemistry, Plant Biology, Entomology, Microbiology, or a closely related field. Degree must have been received within the past five years, or anticipated to be received by end of this year.

Preferred Skills

- Familiarity with High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRMS), including method development, data acquisition, and interpretation for complex natural products. - Adeptness in Liquid Chromatography (LC) (e.g., HPLC, UPLC) and Gas Chromatography (GC) for separating and analyzing plant metabolites and volatiles. - Experience in preparing diverse biological samples (floral tissues, nectar, pollen) for chemical analysis. - Familiarity with microbial culturing and conducting bioassays with various microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, fungi). - Experience conceptualizing, performing, and analyzing insect bioassays (e.g., with pollinators, florivores) to assess responses to chemical cues. - Experience in laboratory, greenhouse, and field settings. - Knowledge of statistical software (e.g., R, SAS) for analyzing complex chemical and biological datasets. - Experience with scientific writing, publications, and presentations. - Excellent problem-solving, independent research, and collaborative skills. - Strong attention to detail and adherence to laboratory safety protocols.