USDA-ARS Postdoctoral Fellow in Crustacean Disease Research

Reference Code

USDA-ARS-SEA-

8/28/2026 3:00:00 PM Eastern Time Zone

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Aquatic Animal Health Research Unit – Auburn, Alabama

The Aquatic Animal Health Research Unit seeks a doctoral candidate to conduct research on White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) in shrimp and crawfish aquaculture systems. The role involves applying molecular tools to survey, monitor, and detect WSSV and to investigate virus transmission pathways.

In this fellowship you will apply in‑vitro microbiology and molecular biology approaches to identify and confirm the presence of WSSV in pond water, sediment, and farmed shrimp and crawfish. The data generated will advance the understanding of WSSV ecology, support improved diagnostic tools, and inform disease prevention strategies.

• Learn about the impact of disease on shrimp and crawfish aquaculture, focusing on WSSV.
• Apply molecular tools to survey, monitor, and detect WSSV.
• Develop skills in in‑vitro microbiology and molecular biology techniques.
• Investigate virus movement and transmission pathways.
• Generate data supporting the development of improved diagnostic tools and disease prevention strategies.
• Align research efforts with ARS priorities to reduce disease‑related losses.

Julio

C. Garcia (julioc.garcia)

September 2026 (flexible)

Initial one year, renewable upon recommendation and availability of funds.

Full time

$60,000 – $78,000 annually, commensurate with educational level and experience.

U.S. citizen only.

The 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 and receive no employment benefits. Health insurance coverage is provided through ORISE.

Candidate must hold or be expected to receive a doctoral degree in Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, or a related biological science field by the start of the appointment.

• Knowledge of aquaculture, microbiology, molecular biology, virology, and bioinformatics.
• Flexibility and self‑motivation.
• Experience with experimental design, conducting experiments, and interpreting results.
• Functional knowledge of PCR, qPCR, DNA sequencing, and viral analysis.
• Strong organizational, multitasking, collaboration, and teamwork abilities.
• Proficiency in technical writing, oral communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

• U.S. Citizenship.
• Doctoral degree received within last 60 months or anticipated by 8/31/2026 11:59:00 PM.
• Discipline eligibility:
  Environmental and Marine Sciences (Fisheries), Life Health and Medical Sciences.

Sara Beth