USDA-ARS Postdoctoral Research - Emerging Food Processing and Preservation Technologies

Research Project

You will have the opportunity to participate in research focused on the development of emerging processing and preservation interventions to control foodborne pathogens (Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes) in products such as eggs, and fresh produce and food-contact surfaces at the USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Eastern Regional Research Center with the Characterization and Interventions for Foodborne Pathogens (CIFP) Research Unit in Wyndmoor, PA.

Learning Objectives

• Learn to investigate and resolve food safety problems related to microbial inactivation in complex food products and surfaces
• Gain experience on the development and use of emerging food processing and preservation interventions according to the food product
• Develop skills in food microbiology applied to biofilm formation, removal and sanitation of food-contact surfaces
• Learn to optimize processes related to emerging interventions to control pathogens such as Salmonella spp., E. coli, and L. monocytogenes, in diverse food commodities
• Build competency in BSL-2 lab practices, including safe handling of foodborne pathogens
• Gain experience in food quality analysis after the use of novel interventions
• Develop the ability to identify food safety challenges associated to food processing environments

Mentor(s)

The mentor for this opportunity is Luz Daniela Bermudez-Aguirre (daniela.bermudez@usda.gov).

Anticipated Appointment Start Date

September 2026. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.

Appointment Length

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

Level of Participation

The appointment is full time.

Participant Stipend

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

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.

Questions

Please visit our Program Website. After reading, if you have additional questions about the application process, please email ORISE.ARS.Northeast@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.

Qualification Requirements

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a doctoral degree in the one of the relevant fields. Degree must have been received within the past five years or anticipated to be received by the end of this year.