USDA-ARS Postdoctoral Fellowship in Molecular Plant-Pathogen Interaction & Sustainable Protection

How To Apply

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

• An application
• Transcript(s) – 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.  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

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

USDA-ARS-HQ-

• An application
• Transcript(s) – An unofficial transcript or copy of the student academic records printer by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institution systems may be submitted.  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

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

Connect with ORISE...on the GO! Download the ORISE GO mobile app to stay engaged, connected, and informed during your ORISE experience and beyond.

3/27/2026 3:00:00 PM Eastern Time Zone

Applications are reviewed on a rolling-basis.

ARS Office/Lab and

Location:

A research opportunity is available with the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in Wapato, Washington. ARS is the USDA’s chief scientific in-house research agency with a mission to find solutions to agricultural problems. The agency aims to provide global leadership in agricultural discoveries through scientific excellence.

The selected participant will be hosted at the Temperate Tree Fruit and Vegetable Research Unit, a facility that collaborates with Washington State University and Oregon State University. https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

The participant will engage in research focusing on molecular symbiont technology, specifically the development of transgenic galls that serve as biological platforms to produce and deliver therapeutic or beneficial products into host plants. The appointment provides hands-on experience navigating the molecular interface of plant-pathogen interactions. The participant will analyze experimental data, troubleshoot transformation protocols, and contribute to the scientific community through research findings for peer-reviewed journals and professional meetings.

Gain specialized knowledge in the molecular engineering of Agrobacterium-induced galls, including collaboration on the molecular design, generation, and optimization of plasmid constructs and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of plant tissues. Learn to characterize interactions using high-resolution molecular and biochemical assays (protein detection, Western blotting, ELISA) to evaluate expression and movement of products from the gall to the host plant.

The fellowship fosters professional growth in a multicultural, team-based environment, focusing on research and training activities rather than administrative, budgetary, or supervisory duties.

Mentor:
Marco Pitino (marco.pitino). For questions about the research, contact the mentor.

Anticipated

Start Date:

February 2026 (flexible). Appointment Length: two years. Level of Participation: full time.

The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. The anticipated stipend is $96,443 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 to manage ORISE. 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 and can be obtained through ORISE.

Please visit the Program Website. If you have questions about the…