Agricultural Research Service (ARS): A Guide for New Government Contractors

Understanding ARS

What is ARS?

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is the principal scientific research agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). It conducts cutting-edge agricultural research to solve critical challenges in food production, sustainability, and biosecurity. ARS supports farmers, food producers, and policymakers by delivering scientific innovations that enhance productivity and food safety while ensuring environmental sustainability.

Key Areas of Focus:

  • Crop and Animal Production Research: Advances in genetics, breeding, and disease resistance.
  • Food Safety & Quality: Reducing foodborne pathogens and improving food processing technologies.
  • Sustainable Agriculture & Climate Change: Soil conservation, water management, and climate-resilient farming practices.
  • Pest and Disease Control: Developing solutions for invasive species, crop pests, and livestock diseases.
  • Biosecurity & Biodefense: Protecting U.S. agriculture from biological threats and emerging diseases.
  • Human Nutrition & Health: Researching dietary guidelines and food-based health solutions.
  • Agrotechnology & Digital Farming: Precision agriculture, AI applications, and automated farming technologies.

Mission and Goals

ARS is committed to developing solutions to agricultural problems that affect the U.S. economy and public well-being. The agency’s research supports food security, environmental stewardship, and rural economic development through science-driven innovations.

ARS Organization

ARS operates through four national program areas, each addressing specific research priorities:

  1. Animal Production & Protection: Research on livestock health, genetics, and biosecurity.
  2. Crop Production & Protection: Innovations in plant breeding, pest management, and sustainable farming.
  3. Natural Resources & Sustainable Ag Systems: Studies on soil health, irrigation, and ecosystem conservation.
  4. Nutrition, Food Safety & Quality: Research on foodborne diseases, nutrition science, and food processing safety.

ARS manages 90+ research locations across the U.S. and has partnerships with universities, industry groups, and international research organizations.

Advancing Your Career as a Contractor with ARS

Helpful Tips for IT Professionals and Consultants:

  • Understand ARS’s Research Priorities: Tailor your services to support data science, bioinformatics, lab automation, and digital agriculture solutions.
  • Stay Current with Federal Research Guidelines: ARS adheres to federal policies on scientific integrity, data security, and open-access research. Contractors should ensure compliance with FISMA, HIPAA (for health-related research), and USDA procurement policies.
  • Master ARS Data & IT Systems: Key ARS systems include:
    • Ag Data Commons – USDA’s open research data platform.
    • ARS Digital Tools – GIS mapping, remote sensing, and predictive analytics tools.
    • Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) – Used in research centers for data tracking.
  • Agile & Cloud-Based Research Solutions: ARS is modernizing its research infrastructure with AI, machine learning, and cloud computing. Contractors with expertise in big data analytics and cybersecurity will be in demand.
  • Networking & Collaboration: Attend ARS industry events, USDA innovation summits, and agricultural technology conferences to learn about contracting opportunities.
  • Compliance & Ethical Research Practices: Ensure that IT solutions align with federal research ethics, intellectual property (IP) policies, and cybersecurity best practices.

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