ORISE

Graduate Student Food Safety Fellowship available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), administered by ORISE/ORAU.

This is a doctoral-level research opportunity focused on food safety, food science, public health, veterinary medicine, and related fields. The participant will design a project aligned with FSIS research priorities, which may include laboratory studies or non-laboratory work such as data analytics. Research topics should relate directly or indirectly to food safety priorities and the safety of the food supply.

The fellowship is part-time and the research is completed at the participant’s university under the guidance of a university mentor, with collaboration from an FSIS mentor. Participants may present findings to FSIS senior leaders and scientists and may have opportunities to visit FSIS laboratories and a regulated establishment.

Funding includes a monthly stipend of $1,800 and $6,000 total for travel or research supplies. The appointment is initially for one year and may be renewed depending on recommendation and funding availability. Proof of health insurance is required for participation.

Eligibility highlights: applicants must be U.S. citizens and currently pursuing a doctoral degree at an accredited U.S. college, university, or technical institute. Required application materials include an unofficial transcript or academic records, a current CV/resume, a 500-word essay, a letter of support from the university major professor/mentor, and one additional recommendation. All documents must be in English.

Application deadline: June 5, 2026 at 3:00 PM Eastern Time. Anticipated start date: August 3, 2026.