USDA-ARS Postdoctoral Opportunity in Cotton and Oilseed Genetics Research

About the role

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking a researcher to work on a project focused on traditional and molecular breeding of value-added traits in oilseeds, primarily cotton, and analysis of lipids, DNA, RNA, and other metabolites produced by such plants.

Responsibilities

• Engage in research focused on investigating mechanisms contributing to successful seed germination, especially at cool temperatures.
• Utilize genome editing tools to modify lipid flux in developing oilseeds.
• Conduct experiments in a laboratory setting, greenhouse research, and field trials.
• Extract and analyze cottonseed processing products (primarily cottonseed oil and protein).
• Present research findings to stakeholders and academic conferences.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing or having received a doctoral degree in relevant fields (e.g. Agronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Plant Sciences or closely related field).
• Understanding of the central dogma of DNA.
• Experience with DNA extractions, PCR, and agarose gel electrophoresis.
• Experience with lipid extraction and analysis by gas chromatography.
• Experience with plant breeding and plant genetics is considered a plus.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Software.
• Experience in multidisciplinary research teams, excellent communication skills, and a creative, solution-oriented approach to troubleshooting technical or analytical challenges.

Qualifications

• U.S. Citizen Only.
• Doctoral Degree.
• Minimum Overall GPA: 3.00.
• Discipline(s): Chemistry and Materials Sciences, Life Health and Medical Sciences.

Skills

• Understanding of the central dogma of DNA.
• Experience with DNA extractions, PCR, and agarose gel electrophoresis.
• Experience with lipid extraction and analysis by gas chromatography.
• Experience with plant breeding and plant genetics.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Software.
• Experience in multidisciplinary research teams.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Creative, solution-oriented approach to troubleshooting technical or analytical challenges.

Benefits

• Monthly stipend of $6,223.17.

Pay

• $6,223.17 Monthly.

Schedule

• Full-time appointment.

Contact

For questions about the nature of the research, please contact the mentor(s): Jay Shockey (Jay.Shockey@usda.gov).

For additional questions about the application process, please email ORISE.ARS.Southeast@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.