USDA-ARS Foodborne Toxin Detection and Prevention Postdoctoral Fellowships

Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education; Albany (CA); On-site; USD 84,129 - 92,433; Full time

Job summary

Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education in Albany, California, is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to advance chemical/biological detection methods. The role involves learning and developing detection platforms, collaborating with chemists, microbiologists, entomologists, and engineers to strengthen ARS research programs.

You will explore natural bioactive compounds for pest management and engage in interdisciplinary projects with agricultural stakeholders and industry partners.

Qualifications

• The candidate should hold a doctoral degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, or Life Sciences.
• Strong background in analytical detection platforms and bioanalytical methods is preferred.
• Experience with translational research and collaborations with industry is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply detection technology for chemical/biological targets.
• Collaborate with scientists across chemistry, microbiology, entomology, and engineering.
• Assist in publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Support translation of research into practical tools for stakeholders.

Skills

Background in chemistry, formulation,,

Education

Doctoral Degree

Tools

GC-MS

Job description

How to Apply

To submit your application, scroll to the bottom of this opportunity and click APPLY.

• An application
• Transcript(s) – For this opportunity, an unofficial transcript or copy of the student academic records printed by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institution systems may be submitted. Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
• A current resume/CV, including academic history, employment history, relevant experiences, and publication list
• Two educational or professional recommendations

Organization

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Reference Code

USDA-ARS-PWA-2026-0128

Description

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

ARS Office/Lab and Location

A research opportunity is currently available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), located in Western Regional Research Center, Albany, California.

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.

The Foodborne Toxin Detection and Prevention Research Unit in Albany, California, conducts research to enhance food safety and biosecurity by developing new methods for analysis of toxins and bacteria in foods, and safe and effective compounds and management strategies targeting agricultural insect pests and/or mycotoxin-producing fungi to reduce or eliminate mycotoxin contamination of agricultural commodities including almonds, pistachios, walnuts, and raisins.

Research Project

We are seeking postdoctoral fellows who will learn about the engineering or development of chemical/biological detection methods; discovery and repurposing of natural bioactive compounds for pest management; or in-field interventions for pathogens/their associated toxins and/or insect pests to support and strengthen existing ARS research programs to develop cost-effective, easy to use methods and interventions for our agricultural stakeholders and enhance the economic prosperity of U.S. farmers and producers.

Research is highly interdisciplinary, and the candidate(s) could use skills and develop their skills in chemistry, entomology, microbiology, analytical chemistry, and engineering. Mentoring may involve collaborating with multiple scientists with expertise in chemistry, microbiology, and entomology. Research integrates analytical chemistry, microbiology, entomology, and engineering approaches and is conducted in collaboration with agricultural stakeholders and industry partners.

Learning Objectives

• Gain experience in detection technology development
• Investigate safe and effective product development against insect pests and/or mycotoxin-producing fungi
• Expand their scientific and technical knowledge in food safety and translational research in agriculture by collaborating with scientists of diverse expertise
• Have opportunities to publish manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals

Mentor(s)

The mentor for this opportunity is Christina Tam ([e-mail]). If you have questions about the nature of the research, please contact the mentor(s).

Appointment

Anticipated appointment start date: As soon as a qualified candidate is identified. 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. The anticipated stipend range is $84,129 - $92,433 annually.

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 [e-mail] and include the reference code for this opportunity.

Qualifications

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a doctoral degree in one of the relevant fields.

Preferred Skills

• Background in chemistry, formulation science, GC-MS, molecular biology, entomology, and/or engineering of diagnostic detection platforms is preferred.

Eligibility Requirements

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: Doctoral Degree
• Discipline(s):
  • Chemistry and Materials Sciences
    • Analytical Chemistry
    • Bio-inorganic Chemistry
    • Bio-organic Chemistry
    • Chemistry (General)
    • Environmental Chemistry
    • Inorganic Chemistry
    • Materials Sciences
    • Organic Chemistry
  • Engineering
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences
    • Science & Engineering-related