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Postdoctoral Fellowship in Antimicrobial Resistance

*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis.

A research opportunity is available with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) located in Ames, Iowa.

This research opportunity provides support for the National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) antimicrobial resistance pilot project by analyzing and reporting antibiotic susceptibility and whole genome sequencing data submitted to NAHLN from participating laboratories and developing both internal and external communication plans to disseminate findings to a wide range of technical and non-technical audiences. Under the guidance of a mentor, the participant will be involved in the following research activities: synthesize data collected through the pilot project and utilize publicly available transcriptomic, metabolomic and genomic sequence databases to predict and characterize antimicrobial resistance genes and pathogenic virulence determinants; help develop novel bioinformatic techniques to investigate regulatory, co-expression, metabolic, and signaling networks involved in antimicrobial resistance; and conduct limited research on molecular and microbiological assays as needed, such as quantitative PCR, DNA extraction and sequencing library preparations, and conducting antimicrobial sensitivity test methods.

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: February 1, 2021 (flexible)

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 APHIS. The initial appointment is for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of APHIS and is contingent on the availability of funds. The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. The annual stipend rate for this opportunity will be determined upon selection and will range between $76,000 and $91,000. Relocation expenses are not available. A travel allowance of $2,500 will be available to go to relevant trainings and conferences to present research findings. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Candidates will be eligible to receive a health insurance allowance. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE. The appointment is full-time at APHIS in the Ames, Iowa, area. Participants do not become employees of USDA, APHIS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits.

Adjudication of a Special Agency Check (SAC) is required before the selected candidate can start. Paperwork for this clearance will be sent to the selected candidate after acceptance of the official offer from ORAU.

This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) only.

If you have questions, send an email to USDA-APHIS@orau.org. Please include the reference code for this opportunity (USDA-APHIS-2021-0027) in your email.