U.S. Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS)
Location: Maricopa, AZ
Application Deadline: November 20, 2026 at 3:00 PM ET
Anticipated Start Date: December 1, 2026 (flexible)
Duration: 1 year, with potential for renewal
Schedule: Full-time
Stipend: $42,000–$48,000/year
Reference Code: USDA-ARS-PWA-2026-0374
The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is seeking a participant for a full-time Biological Science Fellowship with an entomology focus in Maricopa, Arizona.
This research opportunity focuses on developing and improving management strategies for agricultural insect pests. The selected participant will work alongside an interdisciplinary research team and receive mentorship from PhD-level scientists while gaining hands-on experience in entomological research, experimental design, and data analysis.
Research Activities
The fellowship will provide experience in several areas of entomological research, including:
- Collecting insects and monitoring field traps
- Maintaining outdoor and greenhouse field trials
- Rearing and maintaining live insect colonies
- Counting, sorting, and identifying insect specimens using microscopes
- Recording insect behavioral observations
- Preparing biological samples for testing
- Coordinating and optimizing insect behavioral assays
- Curating specimens
- Maintaining detailed experimental records and digital databases
- Conducting basic statistical analyses
Qualifications
Applicants must be currently pursuing or have received a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field.
Additional eligibility requirements include:
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Must meet ORISE educational eligibility requirements
- Must provide proof of health insurance for participation
Fellowship Details
The anticipated appointment will begin December 1, 2026, although the start date is flexible. The initial appointment is for one year and may be renewed based on USDA-ARS recommendation and availability of funding.
This opportunity is administered through the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE). Participants are not employees of USDA, ARS, DOE, or ORISE and do not receive employment-related benefits.
Application Requirements
A complete application must include:
- Completed application
- Academic transcript(s) – unofficial transcripts are accepted
- Current resume or CV, including academic history, employment history, relevant experience, and publications
- Two educational or professional recommendations
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and the opportunity may close before the listed deadline, so interested applicants are encouraged to apply early.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the Zintellect opportunity page.
Application Deadline: November 20, 2026 at 3:00 PM Eastern Time
For the complete fellowship description, eligibility requirements, and application, click here.