USDA-ARS Parasites and Pathogens of Honey Bees
*Applications are reviewed on a rolling-basis.
ARS Office/Lab and Location: Multiple research opportunities in honey bee parasites are currently available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), within the Bee Research Laboratory, 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 USDA-ARS Bee Research Laboratory (https://www.ars.usda.gov/northeast-area/beltsville-md-barc/beltsville-agricultural-research-center/bee-research-laboratory/) is looking for students or recent graduates for our Research Scholars program to conduct research with Bee Research Laboratory scientists. This program is focused on studying parasites and pathogens of honey bees and reducing their impacts on honey bee health. Honey bees are important for many aspects of US agriculture, from crop production to small- and large-scale honey production. Research projects can include both field and laboratory experiments, and the mentor will consult with applicants to identify the most fulfilling research project. Experience with honey bees is desired as are skills in safe laboratory practices.
Learning Objectives: During the appointment, you will learn about,
- Improving the health of honey bees.
- Enhancing your preparedness for scientific, technological and medical careers.
- Establishing connections with USDA scientists and subject matter experts that promote long-term relationships between yourself, researchers, and other professionals in their field.
Mentor(s): The mentor for this opportunity is Jay Evans (jay.evans@usda.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research, please contact the mentor(s).
Anticipated Appointment Start Date: May 1, 2026. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.
Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for five months, but may be renewed upon recommendation of ARS and is contingent on the availability of funds.
Level of Participation: The appointment is part-time, or full-time, and is negotiable.
Participant Stipend: The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. The anticipated stipend range is $3,000 - $4,500 monthly.
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 ORISE.ARS.Northeast@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.
Qualifications
The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a bachelor's degree in the one of the relevant fields.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with genetic laboratory techniques including DNA and RNA extraction, quantification using the polymerase chain reaction, and sequence analysis.
- Experience with beekeeping and;
- Willingness to be trained in consistent and complex laboratory procedures.
Stipend
$3,000.00 – $4,500.00 Monthly
Point of Contact
Eligibility Requirements
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
- Degree: Bachelor's Degree.