Student Research Opportunity in Biological Sciences
*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis.
A research opportunity is currently available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology (CMAVE), Mosquito and Fly Research Unit located in Gainesville, Florida.
This project will involve conducting laboratory and field research to develop and evaluate novel and efficacious control products for mosquitoes which transmit very dangerous human arboviruses. Under the guidance of a mentor, the participant will be involved in the conduct of this research collaborating with Federal scientists and technicians.
The participant will learn to identify different species of mosquitoes and that these species have different feeding behavioral patterns which require different diets to be successfully reared. Thus, the participant will also learn the life cycles of different mosquito species. The participant will contribute to preparation of the various diets required and will be involved in rearing different mosquito species.
The participant will be exposed to the practical use of the scientific method to determine the optimal diet and rearing method for various mosquito species.
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. The initial appointment is for three months, but may be renewed for an additional year upon recommendation of ARS and is contingent on the availability of funds. The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. The appointment is part-time (20 hours per week) at ARS in the Gainesville, Florida, area. Participants do not become employees of USDA, ARS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits.
This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens only.
For more information about the ARS Research Participation Program, please visit the Program Website.
Qualifications
The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Agricultural Sciences, Biology, Entomology, Mathematics, or Wildlife Sciences.
Preferred skills:
- Experience rearing mosquitoes
- Knowledge of mosquito biology
- Skills in conducting scientific studies and analyzing the data
- Knowledge of Geographic Information Systems
If you have questions, send an email to USDA-ARS@orau.org. Please include the reference code for this opportunity (USDA-ARS-2020-0051) in your email.