USDA-ARS SCINet/AI-COE Postdoctoral Fellowship in AI-Driven Solutions for Food Safety

About the role

A postdoctoral research opportunity is available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Eastern Regional Research Center (ERRC) in Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania. The appointment is part of the ARS SCINet/Artificial Intelligence (AI) Center of Excellence Research Participation Program, which supports cross‑disciplinary research using high‑performance computing, machine learning, and data science to address agricultural challenges from the genome to continental scales.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on non‑targeted analysis of per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food, food contact materials, and agricultural samples.
• Develop machine learning tools for the identification and analysis of unknown PFAS.
• Compile high‑resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) databases for PFAS.
• Create and train machine learning models on high‑quality standards across diverse PFAS classes.
• Validate model prediction accuracy and error rates.
• Apply the developed tools to real‑world agricultural samples to detect previously unreported PFAS, contributing to enhanced food safety.
• Engage in organizational and operational planning and science communication activities supporting SCINet and the ARS AI Center of Excellence.
• Take online courses in scientific topics such as R, Python, and statistics.
• Participate in workshops and group experiences to build collaboration and leadership skills.

Qualifications

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a doctoral degree in a relevant field. Applicants must be U.S. citizens. Preferred disciplines include Chemistry and Materials Sciences (e.g., Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Theoretical Chemistry).

Skills

• Advanced knowledge of high‑resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS)
• Experience in non‑targeted analysis, data handling and analysis, including proficiency in R and Python
• Strong problem‑solving skills
• Experience developing, testing, and refining machine learning models
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Experience with publishing in peer‑reviewed journals

Benefits

• Monthly stipend plus a supplement to offset health insurance costs
• Funding available for supplies and travel essential to the research
• Relocation cost assistance, if applicable
• Access to health insurance through ORISE

Pay

The participant stipend ranges from $100,000 to $110,000 per year, plus a supplement to offset health insurance costs.

Schedule

The appointment is full‑time, with an anticipated start date in 2027 (flexible). The initial appointment is for one year and may be renewed for a second year upon recommendation of the mentor and ARS.