Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Honey Bee Pest Control and Plant-Based Natural Pesticides U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research in United States

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS), National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research (NCAUR), is recruiting a postdoctoral research fellow through ORISE/ORAU in Peoria, Illinois, United States.

This opportunity focuses on honey bee health, Varroa mite control, and the discovery/development of plant-based natural pesticides and bioactive compounds. The project combines laboratory work and outdoor field research to identify candidate treatments that can kill Varroa mites and/or their vectored pathogens without harming bees.

Research activities include monitoring experimental honeybee colonies, sampling mites from live colonies, conducting bioassays, testing plant extracts/compounds under real weather conditions, and evaluating effects on bee immunity, colony function, and behavior. The role also offers training in field and laboratory experiment design, sample identification, compound isolation/purification, molecular characterization of honey bee health, and biological data analysis.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should have received or be currently pursuing a doctoral degree in a relevant field. Preferred experience includes honey bee handling, laboratory/greenhouse and field experimentation, plant bioactive compound work, and molecular biology techniques such as PCR, RT-qPCR, RNAi, and sequencing. This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens only.

Funding: full-time appointment with a monthly stipend commensurate with education and experience; anticipated stipend is $74,678 annually. The appointment starts around August 2026, initially for one year, with possible renewal depending on recommendation and funding availability. Proof of health insurance is required.

How to apply: submit the application through the Zintellect/ORISE page by clicking APPLY. Provide transcript(s), a current CV/resume, and two recommendations. The deadline is 2026-07-31 (rolling review noted).