*Applications are reviewed on a rolling-basis.

ARS Office/Lab and Location: A research opportunity is currently available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), located in New Orleans, Louisiana, 

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is the U.S. Department of Agriculture's chief scientific in-house research agency with a mission to find solutions to agricultural problems that affect Americans every day from field to table. ARS will deliver cutting-edge, scientific tools and innovative solutions for American farmers, producers, industry, and communities to support the nourishment and well-being of all people; sustain our nation’s agroecosystems and natural resources; and ensure the economic competitiveness and excellence of our agriculture. The vision of the agency is to provide global leadership in agricultural discoveries through scientific excellence.

Research Project: The Cotton Fiber Bioscience and Utilization Research Unit employs an innovative interdisciplinary approach to developing advancements in cotton fiber resulting in increased value. Under the guidance of a mentor, the participant will conduct original research to design, synthesize and develop processes for novel chemical treatments or modifications to cotton fiber to achieve desirable properties.

The overall objective of this project is to develop per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-alternative approaches to cotton textile treatment that are environmentally friendly, cost effective, and commercially relevant chemical processes that enhance the value of cotton as a fiber of choice. Specific research activities for the participant include: 1) using principles of organic and inorganic chemistry to produce desirable properties of cotton and other natural fibers at various stages of industrial processing (raw, scoured, bleached), 2) evaluating the effectiveness of developed processes through fiber analysis, analytical and spectroscopic methods, and other techniques, 3) study of textile durability against typical environmental conditions, laundering and understanding impacts of the materials in end waste disposal.

Learning Objectives: The participant will develop an understanding of cotton fibers as a textile material through chemical transformations and mechanical construction taking into consideration fiber morphology and other characteristics. The participant will learn many techniques related the chemical modification of cotton and other natural fibers, nanoparticle synthesis and applications, and a deeper understanding of industrial pilot scale manufacturing techniques for woven and nonwoven fabrics through interactions and collaborations with commercial stakeholders. To accomplish this, the participant will collaborate in a research team that includes a chemist, textile engineer, molecular biologist, plant physiologist, computational biologist, and geneticist. When completed, the participant will have a thorough understanding of chemical modifications and finishings of cotton fiber textiles, and with opportunities to present research findings to stakeholders and academic conferences.

Mentor(s): The mentor for this opportunity is David Fang (david.fang@usda.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research, please contact the mentor(s).

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: August 5, 2024. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.

Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for two years, but may be renewed upon recommendation of ARS and is contingent on the availability of funds.

Level of Participation: The appointment is full time.

Participant Stipend: The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience.

Citizenship Requirements: This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR), and foreign nationals. Non-U.S. citizen applicants should refer to the Guidelines for Non-U.S. Citizens Details page of the program website for information about the valid immigration statuses that are acceptable for program participation.

ORISE Information: This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and ARS. Participants do not become employees of USDA, ARS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.

Questions: Please visit our Program Website. After reading, if you have additional questions about the application process, please email ORISE.ARS.Southeast@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.