PDF versionJob Summary
The Mycotoxin Prevention and Applied Microbiology (MPM) Research Unit in Peoria, IL is seeking a Research Molecular Biologist (Plants) or Plant Physiologist. MPM scientists conduct research in genetics, microbiology, chemistry, and plant biology to produce information and technologies needed to enhance food safety and crop production in the U.S. and around the world. The incumbent will conduct research to develop information and novel approaches to reduce mycotoxin contamination of food.
Major Duties
- Design, plan, conduct, analyze, and publish research on plant physiology to improve crop production and food safety.
- Present research at national and international conferences and transfer research findings directly to stakeholders.
- Direct and supervise research support staff.
- Determine the impact of elevated carbon dioxide and other abiotic factors on mycotoxin accumulation in wheat lines currently being used in breeding programs to enhance Fusarium head blight resistance.
- Identify the genetic basis for the relationship between resistance to infection by mycotoxigenic fungi and grain nutritional quality.
- Identify plant germplasm that will provide resistance to mycotoxigenic fungi under current and future climate conditions while maintaining nutritional quality.
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. This is an interdisciplinary position and may be filled in any of the job series/position titles listed. In addition to the specialized experience requirements, applicants must submit proof that they meet the educational requirements for at least one of the series described in the announcement. Applicants may only be appointed to job series/position titles for which they meet all experience and educational requirements. Your education and experience will be evaluated against all requirements (basic and any additional requirements) listed below. Basic Requirements: General Natural Resources Management and Biological Sciences Series, 0401
Degree: biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position. OR
Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position, plus appropriate experience or additional education. Plant Physiology Series, 0435 Degree: botany or plant physiology; or a related scientific discipline that included at least 10 semester hours in plant physiology. Additional Requirements: In addition to meeting the basic requirements for one of the series 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. plant physiology, botany, plant pathology, plant biology, crop science, or horticulture) OR 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-11 grade level in the Federal Service conducting research related to the impact of abiotic stress on plant primary metabolism or plant defense against pathogens AND publishing research results in peer-reviewed journals OR a combination of graduate level education and specialized experience. GS-13: Applicants must have 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-12 grade level in the Federal Service conceiving, planning and conducting independent research related to the impact of abiotic stress on plant primary metabolism or plant defense against pathogens; presenting research results at scientific meetings; publishing independent research results in peer-reviewed journals; AND supervising undergraduate students or technicians to accomplish research. 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 - $115,313.00