FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITY — Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS) is offering a full-time Agricultural Data Science fellowship in Columbia, Missouri. The fellowship focuses on integrating spatial and temporal agricultural datasets—including remote sensing, water quality, soil health, and crop yield data—to develop tools that help farmers optimize production and profitability. The appointment is initially one year and may be renewed based on funding availability and program recommendations.
Application Deadline
17 July 2026 (3:00 PM Eastern Time)
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so earlier submission is advisable.
MS & PhD Opportunity at Auburn University, USA Apply now
Overview
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Entity | ORAU / ORISE with USDA-ARS |
| Location | Columbia, Missouri, USA |
| Stipend | $5,500–$6,000 per month (commensurate with education and experience) |
| Appointment Length | Initially 1 year, renewable if approved and funded |
| Participation Level | Full-time |
| Start Date | June 2026 (flexible) |
| Reference Code | USDA-ARS-MWA-2026-0219 |
Research Description
The fellow will join an ongoing USDA-ARS research project that integrates remote sensing, water quality, soil health, crop yield, and other spatial-temporal datasets. The goal is to improve tools that help farmers optimize production and profitability while collaborating with scientists in hydrology, soil science, and agronomy.
Under the guidance of a mentor, the fellow will learn about compiling, validating, and analyzing heterogeneous agricultural datasets, and gain experience across the research pipeline—from data collection and quality control through analysis and interpretation.
Eligibility Criteria
- U.S. citizen (required).
- Currently pursuing or recently completed (within the last 24 months) a Master’s degree in a relevant field.
- Minimum GPA: 3.0.
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
Relevant disciplines: Computer, Information & Data Sciences; Engineering; Life, Health & Medical Sciences; Mathematics & Statistics.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience handling large datasets.
- Experience performing data quality checks and validation procedures.
- Interest in agricultural, environmental, or spatial-temporal data analysis.
Required Application Materials
- Online application.
- Unofficial transcript(s) or acceptable academic records printout.
- Current resume/CV including academic history, employment history, relevant experience, and publications (if any).
- Two educational or professional recommendations.
All documents must be in English or accompanied by an official English translation.
How to Apply
Apply through the ORISE/ORAU opportunity portal for reference code USDA-ARS-MWA-2026-0219. The posting instructs applicants to scroll to the bottom of the opportunity page and click APPLY.
Application link: ORISE / USDA-ARS Fellowship application portal
Questions about the application process: ORISE.ARS.Midwest@orau.org
Research mentor contact: Kristen Veum — kristen.veum@usda.gov
Important Notes
- This is an ORISE research appointment, not a federal employment position with USDA, ARS, DOE, or ORAU.
- Proof of health insurance is required for participation; coverage can be obtained through ORISE.
- The appointment is subject to funding availability and program continuation.
Why this fellowship stands out
- Strong exposure to agricultural data science and spatial-temporal analytics.
- Direct collaboration with scientists in hydrology, soil science, and agronomy.
- Competitive $5,500–$6,000/month stipend plus hands-on research training.
- Experience with real-world datasets that support farm management and profitability decision-making.
Save these dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Rolling review begins | Already underway |
| Application deadline | 17 July 2026, 3:00 PM ET |
| Anticipated start | June 2026 (flexible) |
Helen Oesha holds a Doctorate in Entrepreneurship and is a dedicated advocate for youth empowerment through education. Since 2021, she has been guiding students toward scholarships and international opportunities, making higher education more accessible worldwide. Oesha platform is widely regarded as a leading source for discovering global opportunities. Having personally experienced the challenges and success of funded doctoral studies, she is passionate about bridging the gap between ambition and access, helping students realize their dreams and reach their highest potential.