USDA-ARS Appalachian Fruit Research Biological Sciences Internship

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

We are seeking a research assistant to work at the Appalachian Fruit Research Station, part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS), located in Kearneysville, West Virginia. The role involves field and laboratory work on sustainable fruit production and pest management solutions.

The project focuses on developing sustainable production practices, breeding novel fruit varieties, and researching biological control tools for invasive pests such as the spotted lantern fly. Tasks may include:

• Conducting field experiments in orchards and vineyards
• Executing laboratory assays related to plant physiology and soil science
• Data collection and analysis for experimental design studies
• Developing and implementing regenerative agriculture soil sampling protocols
• Improving fruit quality through horticultural practice development

• Chemical ecology of invasive insect pests
• Experimental design and data curation
• Management of temperate fruit trees and grapevines
• Sustainable management strategies for invasive and persistent insect pests

The mentor is Tracy Leskey (tracy.leskey).

Start Date:

May 18, 2026 (flexible depending on available factors).

Length:
Initial six months, renewable based on funding and recommendation.

Level of Participation:
Full time.

Stipend: $600–$650 per week (monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience).

Only U.S. citizens are eligible.

Current enrollment or graduation with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (biology, environmental studies, ecology, plant science, chemistry, soil science, horticulture, genetics, molecular biology).

• Strong interest in a research environment combining laboratory and field studies.