PDF versionJob Summary
The incumbent serves as a Research Molecular Biologist assigned to the Crop Production and Pest Control Research Unit, West Lafayette, Indiana. The mission of the unit is to safeguard and utilize plant genetic resources (genetic raw material), associated genetic and genomic databases, and bioinformatic tools to ensure an abundant, safe and inexpensive supply of food, feed, fiber,ornamental and industrial products for the United States and other nations.
Major Duties
- The incumbent in this position is responsible for planning and executing a research program on molecular and biochemical basis of insect/wheat interactions and virulence in the insect.
- Identification of Hessian fly and aphid genes expressed in interactions with the host plant and insight into the function of those genes.
- Analyzes, interprets and disseminates the findings in the form of reports, presentations and publications in scientific peer-reviewed journals.
- Collaborates with other Agricultural Research Service (ARS), university and private sector scientists to build the multi-disciplinary team necessary for this research.
- Successful completion of the research objectives will impact science and agricultural technology by improving methods to minimize damage to crop plants by insect pests.
Qualifications
Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below. Minimum qualification requirements are found in the OPM Qualification Standards Operating Manual for General Schedule Positions. General Natural Resources Management and Biological Sciences Series: 0401 A. Degree: biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position.
OR
B. Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education. Additional Requirements
In addition to meeting the basic requirements described above, applicants must also meet additional qualification requirements as stated below. GS-12: Applicants must have a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree directly related to the duties of the position (i.e. biology, botany, molecular biology) OR one-year (52 weeks) of specialized experience (defined below) equivalent to at least the GS-11 grade level in the Federal Service OR a combination of graduate level education and specialized experience. Specialized Experience: Specialized experience is experience directly related to the position to be filled. The specialized experience requirements for this position at the GS-12 level are: Developing and executing a research plan; evaluating results related to the molecular and biochemical basis of insect/wheat interactions and virulence in the insect; using methodologies to evaluate plant-pest interactions at the molecular level in cereals to improve methods of control for insect pests; and publishing research in peer-reviewed scientific journals related to molecular biology, and/or entomology. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. To be considered for this position, you must submit a one-page abstract of your MS thesis and/or Ph.D. dissertation. Also, submit a list of names, addresses, and phone numbers of persons familiar with your stature, contributions, recognition; any honors or awards received; memberships in professional or honor societies; invitations to make presentations at scientific/technical meetings; scientific society office and committee assignments; presentations (other than invitation); and publications.
Applicants must be available to report for duty at the time a selection is made. Selections are typically made within 30 days of the closing date of the announcement.
Pay Range
$74,596.00 - $96,978.00