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USDA-ARS Research Fellowship in Population Genetics and Microbiomes of Invasive Ants

Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education · Gainesville, FL · 3 wk ago
Accounting$2k/moFull-time

ARS Office/Lab and Location: A research opportunity with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), located in Gainesville, Florida. The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is the USDA’s chief scientific in-house research agency, delivering cutting-edge tools and solutions for American farmers, producers, industry, and communities to support nourishment, agroecosystem sustainability, and agricultural competitiveness.

About the role

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. The appointment will initially be for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of ARS and is contingent on the availability of funds. Start date is flexible, with an anticipated start in September 2026.

Research Project

Under the guidance of your mentor, you will:

  • Engage in laboratory studies using genetic and microbiological tools.
  • Perform field collections of invasive ants and whole nests.
  • Participate in rearing fire ant colonies.

Learning Objectives

  • Gain experience in experimental design, logistical planning for field and lab research, data collection, statistical analyses, and summarizing results for technical reports.
  • Learn how to conduct both basic and applied research and develop expertise in insect identification, insect rearing, behavior, genetic and microbiological techniques, statistics, and bioinformatics.
  • Develop skills in preparing scientific presentations.
  • Build a foundation of research skills applicable to a career in science.

Mentor

The mentor for this opportunity is Marina Ascunce (marina.ascunce@usda.gov).

Qualifications

  • U.S. Citizen.
  • Master’s or doctoral degree in Entomology, Ecology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Plant Medicine, or a closely related STEM discipline, received within the past five years.

Preferred Skills

  • Coursework or experience in genetics, molecular diagnostics (e.g., PCR, sequencing preparation), insect identification, or microbial screening.
  • Fieldwork experience.
  • Basic statistics or bioinformatics skills.
  • Familiarity with experimental design.

Stipend

The anticipated monthly stipend is $1,547.51, commensurate with educational level and experience.

Schedule

The appointment is part time.

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