USDA-ARS Expanding Bee Genomic Resources Biodiversity, Systematics, and Pollinator Conservation

Organization

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

USDA-ARS-PWA-

U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Pollinating Insects Research Unit (PIRU) in Logan, Utah, is conducting the Beenome
100 initiative – a USDA‑led effort to generate, curate, and analyze genomic resources for bees. The project focuses on improving pollination services, advancing research on pollinator biodiversity, evolution, and conservation, and providing interdisciplinary training at the interface of field biology, museum science, and genomics.

• Acquire field and museum‑based specimen acquisition skills, including bee collection, identification, and preparation of voucher specimens for long‑term curation in the U.S. National Pollinating Insects Collection.
• Gain experience in molecular laboratory workflows such as DNA extraction, library preparation, and sequencing coordination.
• Receive training in bioinformatics and data analysis, including genome assembly, annotation, and phylogenomic inference using high‑performance computing resources.
• Develop skills in data management, reproducible research practices, scientific communication, and public dissemination through manuscripts, reports, and publicly available genomic datasets.

Michael Branstetter (michael.branstetter)

• Start date:
  
  May 18, 2026 (flexible depending on various factors)
• Length:
  One year initially, may be renewed upon recommendation and availability of funds
• Participation level:
  Full time
• Stipend: $2,000 – $6,000 per month (commensurate with educational level and experience)
• Citizenship: U.S. citizens only

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in one of the relevant fields. The degree must have been received within the past five years, or the applicant must be currently pursuing one of these degrees.

• Strong background in entomology, evolutionary biology, systematics, or a related field with demonstrated interest in pollinator biology.
• Experience with specimen collection, insect identification, or museum‑based research.
• Familiarity with high‑throughput sequencing data, genome assembly, or phylogenomic methods.
• Experience with Linux/Unix environments and high‑performance computing resources.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Commitment to scientific communication and publication.
• For graduate‑level participants: prior training in bee and/or wasp systematics, phylogenetics, and evolutionary biology.
• For post‑baccalaureate or postdoctoral participants: training in bee systematics and/or bioinformatics with experience in molecular or genomic data analysis.
• Experience with fieldwork, insect sampling, and outdoor research activities (especially for post‑baccalaureate participants).

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree:
  Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s Degree, or Doctoral Degree received within the last 60 months or currently pursuing.
• Disciplines (examples):
  Environmental and Marine Sciences, Fish and Wildlife, Wildlife Management, Life Health and Medical Sciences.
• Veterans Preference (if applicable).

The participant will receive a monthly stipend in the range $2,000 – $6,000. The position does not confer employment‑related benefits beyond the stipend. Health insurance is required for participation and may be obtained through ORISE.

Submit your application through the application portal. Required documents include: the application form, unofficial transcript or copy of academic records, a current resume/CV, and two educational or professional recommendations. All documents must be in English or accompanied by an official English translation.

Janeen Questions about the application can be directed to the program contact email: ORISE.ARS.Pacific West, including the reference code for this opportunity.