*Applications are reviewed on a rolling-basis and this posting could close before the deadline.
ARS Office/Lab and Location: A research opportunity is currently available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS) at the U.S. Vegetable Laboratory located in Charleston, South Carolina.
Research Project: The mission of the U.S. Vegetable Laboratory is: a) to improve genetic populations of vegetable crops by combining resistance to diseases and pests (nematodes, insects, and weeds) with favored quality characters and improved yield potentials; and b) to develop knowledge on disease and pest biology, ecology, and epidemiology that can be used as a basis for the development and implementation of new, reliable, environmentally sound integrated management systems that rely on host resistance, biocontrol, and natural compounds rather than conventional pesticides. This research project is being conducted in support of pest management strategies against insect pests of vegetable crops. The focus of study is the sweetpotato whitefly which attacks a wide range of vegetable and other crops. Under the guidance of a mentor, the participant will assist in laboratory, greenhouse and field research to: 1) elucidate plant-based compounds and pesticides that may affect the behavior or biology of whiteflies on vegetable crops, and 2) investigate plant resistance and abiotic factors that may affect populations of whiteflies and their natural enemies.
Learning Objectives: In conducting the activities of this research project, the participant will interact with multi-disciplinary researchers on entomology, plant genetics, chemistry, horticulture, and plant pathology subjects. The participant will be invited to travel to participate in subject relevant conferences and workshops as feasible.
Mentor(s): The mentor for this opportunity is Alvin Simmons (alvin.simmons@usda.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s).
Anticipated Appointment Start Date: Spring 2021. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.
Appointment Length: The appointment(s) 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(s) will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience.
Citizenship Requirements: This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR). Non-U.S. citizen applicants should refer to the Guidelines for Non-U.S. Citizens Details page of the program website for information about the valid immigration statuses that are acceptable for program participation.
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 USDA-ARS@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.
