Subject: Part-time student position at USDA-ARS Agricultural Research Center

Description:
Summer 2018

A part-time student position is available at USDA-ARS Agricultural Research
Center,
Genetic Improvement of Fruits and Vegetables Lab in Beltsville, MD (10
minutes from
College Park). US citizenship is required. Selective Service Registration is
required for
males born after 12/31/1959. Rising sophomores can be hired at the GS2 level
($12.98/hr). Rising juniors and seniors with least 6 semester hours in any
combination of
scientific or technical courses such as biology, chemistry, statistics,
entomology, animal
husbandry, botany, physics, agriculture, or mathematics, can be hired at a
GS3 level
($14.16/hr).

The project involves the study of multiple economically important diseases of
potato. We
exploit modern molecular biology and biotechnology tools to understand the
molecular
mechanisms of microbial pathogens and develop novel disease control
strategies.
Additionally, the successful applicant will perform experiments to determine
the viability
of several biocontrol approaches. Applicants with significant experience in
aseptic
microbiology technique, PCR/RT-PCR, and RNA/DNA extraction will be preferred.

In addition to on-the-job experience, volunteers can have access to Ag-Learn,
a USDA
on-line training site that provides excellent on-line training in many
diverse areas
important for all jobs: internet security awareness, environmentally friendly
waste
management, diversity in the workplace, MS Office proficiency, lab safety,
and many
others. Must be willing to commit to a minimum of 20 hours/week from late May
through
August. The position may transition into a 10-15hour/week research position
during Fall
semester.

E-mail Dr. Christopher Clarke ([log in to unmask]) with your
available
hours and resume; include contact information for listed references. Please
indicate if you
are interested in pursuing undergraduate research during the school year.
Early applicants
will be favored.

Contact Person: Christopher Clarke
Contact Email: [log in to unmask]