USDA-ARS Postdoctoral Fellowship in Plant Genetics and Genomics

Organization and Location

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Southern Horticultural Laboratory, Poplarville, Mississippi.

The fellowship will involve collaborating with USDA‑ARS scientists on research programs focusing on understanding the molecular, genetic, and genomic basis of traits of interest and applying molecular genetics and genomics tools for the characterization and development of cultivars in ornamental (Hibiscus) and small fruit (Blueberry and Muscadine grape) crops.

• Collaborate with USDA‑ARS scientists on molecular genetics and genomics studies of horticultural traits.
• Apply molecular genetics and genomics tools to improve ornamental and small fruit crops.
• Conduct basic and applied research aligned with ARS National Program 301.
• Integrate field, greenhouse, and laboratory experiments for plant improvement and cultivar development.
• Design and analyze molecular and genomic studies that support the development of enhanced plant materials.
• Collaborate closely with mentors and interdisciplinary scientists on ongoing genetics and genomics projects.
• Translate genomic insights into strategies for cultivar characterization and crop improvement.

Hamidou Sakhanokho (hamidou.sakhanokho)

• Start Date:
  
  Anticipated October 20, 2026 (flexible).
• Length:
  One year, with possible renewal upon funding availability.
• Participation:
  Full time.
• Stipend: $72,500–$80,000 per year, commensurate with educational level and experience.

• U.S. citizenship only.
• Doctoral degree in a relevant field received within the past five years or anticipated by 8/31/2026.
• Discipline(s) of eligibility:
  Life Health and Medical Sciences;
  Agricultural Sciences;
  Agriculture;
  Agronomy and Crop Science;
  Bioinformatics;
  Biology (General);
  Botany;
  Cellular and Molecular Biology;
  Genetics (including Genome Sciences);
  Horticulture;
  Plant Sciences.

• Strong background and demonstrated experience in molecular genetics and genomics research.
• Experience in crop genetics and genomics and awareness of current and emerging trends.
• Experience in whole genome sequencing and comparative genomics.
• Interaction and knowledge exchange with diverse research groups.
• Strong data analysis skills and experience with computational tools used in molecular genetics and genomics research.
• Strong writing skills and ability to publish research findings in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Ability to collaborate in diverse and interdisciplinary teams.
• Evidence of independent and collaborative research conduct.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong oral and written communication skills for reporting research results.

The qualified candidate should have received or be currently pursuing a doctoral degree in one of the following relevant fields:
Life Health and Medical Sciences, Agricultural Sciences, Agriculture, Agronomy and Crop Science, Bioinformatics, Biology (General), Botany, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Genetics (including Genome Sciences), Horticulture, Plant Sciences. The degree must have been received within the last five years or be anticipated to be received by 8/31/2026.

Sara Beth

August 28, 2026 at 3:00 PM Eastern Time Zone.