USDA-ARS SCINet​/AI-COE Postdoctoral Fellowship in Computational Design of Insecticidal Molecule

Position: USDA-ARS SCINet/AI-COE Postdoctoral Fellowship in Computational Design of Insecticidal Molecule[...]

USDA-ARS SCINet/AI-COE Postdoctoral Fellowship in Computational Design of Insecticidal Molecules and Genetic Control Systems

1 day ago
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How to Apply

• An application
• Transcript(s) – Unofficial transcript or academic record copy acceptable.
  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.

Organization

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Reference Code

USDA-ARS-SCINet-

Final date to receive applications

1/30/2026 3:00:00 PM Eastern Time Zone

Description

• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

ARS Office / Lab and Location

A postdoctoral research opportunity is available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Sciences Center, located at Parlier, California.

Research Project

This research project focuses on molecular design and genetic manipulation for controlling major pests of high‑value crops, including tree crops.

• In the molecular design track, the Fellow will create RNA‑ and peptide‑based insecticidal molecules utilizing genomic and transcriptomic datasets generated by the host laboratory.
• In the gene editing track, the Fellow will develop efficient delivery systems and mutate key genetic targets in pest species.
• Required skills include big data mining, protein structure and function prediction, protein–ligand interaction, molecular modeling, molecular toxicology, workflow development, gene knockout design and optimization, and genetic transformation techniques.

Learning Objectives

• Learn about USDA‑ARS SCINet computing resources.
• Contribute to the SCINet Protein Function and Phenotype Prediction Working Group and the Arthropod Genomics Working Group.
• Engage in technology transfer through presentations and virtual trainings.
• Gain experience in multidisciplinary research on innovative management strategies for insect and plant pathogen pests associated with fresh and stored horticultural commodities.

Mentor(s)

The mentor for this opportunity is Raman Bansal, Commodity Protection and Quality Research Unit (raman.bansal).

Appointment Start Date

February 2026 (flexible depending on various factors)

Appointment Length

Initially one year, may be renewed upon recommendation of ARS and contingent on availability of funds.

Level of Participation

Full‑time

Participant Stipend

$90,000 – $100,000 per year plus a supplement to offset a health insurance premium.

Citizenship Requirements

U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) only.

ORISE Information

This program is administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Participants do not become employees of USDA, ARS, DOE, or the program administrator, and there are no employment‑related benefits.

Questions

Visit our program website. For additional questions, email ORISE.ARS.SCINet and include the reference code for this opportunity.

Qualifications

The qualified candidate should have a doctoral degree in one of the relevant fields.

Preferred Skills

• Experience developing, testing, and refining machine learning models.
• Experience leveraging Alpha
  
  Fold2 to generate high‑accuracy protein models and structural insights.
• Experience engineering nucleic acid sequences and chemistries to optimize specificity, stability, and delivery to arthropod systems.
• Expertise in molecular biology, including insect transformation and mutagenesis.
• Experience in project support and team collaboration in a multi‑lab consortium setting.
• Excellent communication skills as evidenced by first‑author peer‑reviewed publication(s).

Eligibility Requirements

• Citizenship: LPR or U.S. Citizen
• Degree:
  Doctoral Degree
• Discipline(s):
  Chemistry and Materials Sciences, Computer, Information, and Data Sciences, Earth and Geosciences, Engineering, Environmental and Marine Sciences, Life Health and Medical Sciences, Science & Engineering‑related

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