USDA-ARS Sugarcane Phenotyping - Undergraduate Research Internship

Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education; Houma (LA); On-site; USD 31,230 - 38,171; Full time

Job summary

A leading research organization seeks a motivated individual currently pursuing a Bachelor's Degree to participate in a project focused on developing high-yield energycane varieties. This opportunity provides hands-on laboratory experience and field data collection related to agricultural research. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and 18 years or older. The role offers a monthly stipend based on educational level, with an anticipated annual stipend of $34,701.

Qualifications

• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Must be 18 years of age.
• Relevant fields include chemistry and materials sciences.

Responsibilities

• Gain hands-on laboratory experience.
• Collect field data to assess yield and traits.

Skills

Eager to learn applied plant phenotyping

Positive attitude and collaboration

Education

Currently pursuing a Bachelor's Degree

Job description

Overview

Organization: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Reference Code: USDA-ARS-SEA-2026-0056

How To Apply

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

Complete application materials include:

• An application
• Transcript(s) – unofficial transcripts or copies of student academic records printed by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institution systems. Detailed information about acceptable transcripts is available.
• A current resume/CV, including academic history, employment history, relevant experiences, and publication list
• Two educational or professional recommendations

All documents must be in English or include an official English translation.

Description

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s chief scientific in-house research agency. ARS conducts research to support agricultural problems that affect Americans from field to table and aims to provide global leadership in agricultural discoveries through scientific excellence.

Research Project: This project is part of the CABBI Bioenergy Research Center. The project focuses on developing high-yielding energycane varieties adapted to the southeastern United States. Field and laboratory research will assess cane yield and quality traits, including cold tolerance, recoverable sucrose, biomass yield, and disease resistance.

Learning Objectives: Gain hands-on laboratory experience and learn techniques and how to use standard laboratory equipment. Collect field data to assess yield and traits for local growing conditions. Develop skills for a future in biological science.

Mentor: Anna Hale ([e-mail]). For questions about the research, please contact the mentor.

Anticipated Start Date: 2026 (flexible). Start date depends on various factors.

Appointment Length: One year initially, with possible renewal depending on ARS availability of funds.

Level of Participation: Full-time during the summer months.

Stipend: Monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. Anticipated stipend range: $34,701 annually.

Citizenship Requirements: U.S. citizens only.

ORISE Information: This program is administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy. Participants are not employees of USDA, ARS, DOE, or the program administrator. Proof of health insurance is required and can be obtained through ORISE.

Questions: Please visit the Program Website. For additional questions about the application process, email [e-mail] and include the reference code for this opportunity.

Qualifications

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in one of the relevant fields.

Preferred Skills

• Eager to learn applied plant phenotyping in the field, laboratory, and greenhouse.
• A positive attitude and ability to collaborate with others.

Eligibility & Additional Details

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: Currently pursuing a Bachelor's Degree
• Discipline(s): Chemistry and Materials Sciences; Environmental Chemistry; Inorganic Chemistry; Organic Chemistry; Materials Sciences; Bio-organic Chemistry; Chemistry (General); Environmental and Marine Sciences
• Age: Must be 18 years of age

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