(Interdisciplinary) Research Microbiologist/Research Veterinary Medical Officer

Summary

This position works with the USDA, Agricultural Research Service (ARS), National Bio & Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF), Foreign Arthropod-Borne Animal Diseases Research Unit (FABADRU) in Manhattan, Kansas. Research scientists have open-ended promotion potential. The grade level is limited only by the individual’s demonstrated ability to perform research of recognized importance to science and technology. *Final grade level may be determined by a peer review panel.

Duties

• Identify, propose, and perform independent and collaborative research to achieve the research objectives.
• Provides unique leadership and research skills to contribute to the identification, description, and characterization of the effects of foreign animal diseases in livestock.
• Develop molecular, clinical, and virology techniques to understand virus-host interactions.
• Develop methods or therapies as countermeasures to infection and disease.
• Organize a research program by establishing research priorities providing leadership in planning research projects.
• Supervise the execution of research, review research in progress, evaluate completed research, lead discussions on the interpretation of results, and report and publish in peer-reviewed scientific journals the progress of research.

Education

Qualification Requirements Continued From Above for the Gs-13 Level (0701 Series Only): EXPERIENCE: The qualification requirements for this position at the Gs-13 grade level include one-year specialized experience at the Gs-12 grade level, or its non-Federal equivalent that includes experience in animal and/or arthropod work collecting samples for molecular analysis in compliance with US government animal welfare regulations and experience independently researching the molecular virology of zoonotic arthropod-borne viruses as evidenced through publications. Or Substitution of Education for Experience at the Gs-13 Grade Level: Successful completion of a PhD degree in an area of specialization including, but not limited to: animal science, avian medicine, food safety, infectious diseases, veterinary clinical sciences, pathobiology, biomedical sciences, veterinary anatomy, veterinary preventive medicine, comparative biological sciences, epidemiology, veterinary parasitology, molecular veterinary biosciences, public health, microbiology, pathology, immunology, laboratory animal medicine, toxicology, wildlife, zoological animal medicine, or other sciences related to the work of a veterinary medical officer position. Or Residency/post Graduate Training Program for the Gs-13 Grade Level: Successful completion of three years of an internship, residency program, or fellowship training program in a discipline related to the position. Applicants should provide a certificate or letter documenting the completion of this program.

Or Board Certification for the Gs-13 Grade Level: Specialty boards that are recognized by the American Board of Veterinary Specialties (ABVS) of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) certify eligible candidates as specialists in specific veterinary medical fields. Veterinarians who successfully complete all requirements for Diplomate status in an ABVS-recognized veterinary specialty organization may qualify for the Gs-13 grade level. Applicants should provide a certificate or letter documenting their diplomate status. For The Gs-14 Level (For Both Series): The qualification requirements for this position at the Gs-14 grade level include one-year specialized experience at the Gs-13 grade level, or its non-Federal equivalent that includes experience leading the planning and implementation of molecular virology-based study against zoonotic arthropod-borne virus-based diseases with accomplishments in virology and host-vector-pathogen interactions as demonstrated in scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals, books, or similar scientific literature.

For The Gs-15 Level (For Both Series): The qualification requirements for this position at the Gs-14 grade level include one-year specialized experience at the Gs-13 grade level, or its non-Federal equivalent that includes a reputation that serves as a recruiting tool to your organization and experience in research that has led to international recognition as a technical authority and leader in virology of zoonotic arthropod-borne viruses. Research from the applicant has led to awards, honors, or recognition from major national and international organizations. Note: There is no education substitution for the Gs-14 or Gs-15 grade levels. 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 further support your qualifications, it is strongly recommended that you submit a one-page abstract of your MS thesis and/or Ph. D. dissertation.

Failure to do so could result in loss of your consideration/referral. Also, please 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.

Required Documents

Prepare the documents below before applying. Always confirm the exact requirements on the official announcement, since they vary by position:

• Encrypted documents will not be accepted.
• Resume that includes: Personal Information: name, address, contact information; Education; Work Experience related to this position as described in the major duties including work schedule, hours worked per week, dates of employment; title, series, grade (if applicable); other qualifications.
• Resume cannot exceed 2 pages.
• If education is required or you are using education to qualify, you must submit a copy of your college transcripts.