USDA-ARS Sugarcane Phenotyping - High School Research Internship

Organization

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

USDA-ARS-SEA-

A research opportunity is currently available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), located in Houma, Louisiana. The position focuses on field and laboratory research to assess cane yield and quality traits under the "Feedstock Production" theme of the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI).

Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Houma, Louisiana.

The intern will participate in field and laboratory work to evaluate high‑yielding energy cane varieties adapted to the southeastern United States. Activities include collecting field data, measuring yield and quality traits such as cold tolerance, recoverable sucrose, biomass yield, and disease resistance, and preparing laboratory analyses.

• Develop hands‑on laboratory experience with techniques such as filtration, pipetting, preparation of solutions, and recording data.
• Operate standard laboratory equipment, including spectrophotometers, pH meters, centrifuges, and HPLC.
• Collect and analyze field data to assess yield and traits for adaptation to local growing conditions.

Anna Hale (anna.hale)

• Anticipated start date: 2026 (flexible)
• Initial appointment length: one year, with potential renewal based on funding and recommendation.
• Level of participation: full‑time during the summer months.

The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. Annual stipend: $3,400.00.

This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens only.

Proof of health insurance is required for participation. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing a high school diploma.

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

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree:
  Currently pursuing a High School Diploma/GED.
• Discipline(s):
  • Chemistry and Materials Sciences
    • Bio‑organic Chemistry
    • Chemistry (General)
    • Environmental Chemistry
    • Inorganic Chemistry
    • Materials Sciences
    • Organic Chemistry
  • Environmental and Marine Sciences
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences

Sara Beth