USDA-ARS Food Safety Research 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 Beltsville, Maryland.
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 of the agency is to provide global leadership in agricultural discoveries through scientific excellence.
Research Project: The participant(s) will conduct research studies to improve food safety of fresh fruits and vegetables on Earth and in space. Appointment related activities may include preparing samples, growing vegetables in-doors, taking photos and videos, using 3D printers to generate small devices or parts, performing image analysis, collecting research data, performing microbial studies, writing reports etc.
Learning Objectives: The participant(s) will learn laboratory skills and gain knowledge in the fields of food processing and food safety.
Mentor(s): The mentor for this opportunity is Yaguang Luo (yaguang.luo@usda.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research, please contact the mentor(s).
Anticipated Appointment Start Date: December 1, 2022. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.
Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for six months 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.
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.