You are viewing a preview of this job. Log in or register to view more details about this job.

USDA-ARS Biological Laboratory and Animal Health Internship

*Applications may be reviewed on a rolling-basis.

ARS Office/Lab and Location: Two research opportunities are currently available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS) located in East Lansing, Michigan.

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is the U.S. Department of Agriculture's chief scientific in-house research agency with a mission to find solutions to agricultural problems that affect Americans every day from field to table. ARS will deliver cutting-edge, scientific tools and innovative solutions for American farmers, producers, industry, and communities to support the nourishment and well-being of all people; sustain our nation’s agroecosystems and natural resources; and ensure the economic competitiveness and excellence of our agriculture. The vision the agency is to provide global leadership in agricultural discoveries through scientific excellence.

Research Project: The selected participant(s) will conduct research on the role of host genetic resistance and vaccination on transmission of Marek’s disease virus in poultry. The participant(s) will have the opportunity to participate in studies that are designed to develop a long-term strategy for reducing environmental virus load by selecting for birds that shed less virus. Participation may include examinations and collecting samples from live poultry, assisting with necropsy, laboratory assays for the detection of virus, and data analysis. 

Learning ObjectivesThis environment offers opportunities to learn laboratory procedures such as DNA isolation, conventional and real-time PCR, and cell culture for virus propagation; to interact with scientists and technicians within the group to develop new projects; to develop clinical skills with poultry; and to enhance proficiency in veterinary pathology.

Mentor(s): The mentor for these opportunities is Hans Cheng (hans.cheng@usda.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s).

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: February 2021.  Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.

Appointment Length: The appointment 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 will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. A health insurance allowance will also be provided.

Citizenship Requirements: This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens only.

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 (USDA-ARS-2021-0043).