RESEARCH ECOLOGIST - Agricultural Research Service

Summary The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is the chief scientific research agency and one of the world's premiere scientific organizations. ARS Postdoctoral Research Associates are hired to supplement a lead scientist's research on agricultural problems of high national priority affecting American agriculture. This position is located with the Temperate Tree Fruit and Vegetable Research Unit in Wapato, Washington. **ANNOUNCEMENT IS OPEN UNTIL FILLED OR DECEMBER 29, 2024** Responsibilities Collaborate with other scientists within and outside the Research Unit and ARS, to conduct laboratory and field research Develop methods to document behavioral and chemical interactions among Phytoplasma pruni, leafhopper vectors, and cherry and other stone fruits Present research results at professional meetings and publish independent research findings in peer-reviewed journals related to insect pests of tree fruits Use modern approaches and techniques to investigate chemical ecology, gas chromatography, mass spectroscopy, behavioral assays, and field experimental design Plan and conduct research, individually and as part of a team, in the field and laboratory Requirements Conditions of Employment Qualifications This position requires a Ph.D in Entomology, Plant Pathology, or related discipline of study that has equipped the applicant with the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position. Applicants must meet basic Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standard's requirements of the scientific discipline necessary to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position. GS-11 Specialized Experience: Specialized experience is experience directly related to the position to be filled. The qualification requirements for this position at the GS-11 grade level requires extensive theoretical and applied knowledge of chemical ecology, insect behavior, and plant pathology obtained by acquiring a Ph.D. in Entomology, Plant Pathology, or related discipline. GS-12 Specialized Experience: Specialized experience is experience directly related to the position to be filled. The qualification requirements for this position at the GS-12 grade level requires extensive theoretical and applied knowledge of chemical ecology, insect behavior, and plant pathology obtained by acquiring a Ph.D. in Entomology, Plant Pathology, or related discipline plus 2 years of relevant post graduate experience documented in peer-reviewed journals. Education This position has a positive education requirement. You must submit a copy of your academic transcripts OR a list of college courses with credit hours, dates completed, and grades received to verify education when applying for this position. If this information is not provided, your education may not be appropriately evaluated and you may lose consideration for this position. If you are selected for this position, you will have to provide an official copy of your transcripts prior to entering on duty. Application materials will not be returned. A Ph.D. is required that was obtained within the last four years. Additional Information Recruitment or Relocation Incentive may be authorized. Final determination to pay an incentive will be made by the hiring official at time of job offer. This position may be eligible to telework up to four days per week, based upon the duties of the position. This position may also be eligible for flexible work arrangements as determined by agency policy and any applicable collective bargaining agreements. Privacy Act Statement - FBI 3.2.4.2. Noncriminal Justice Applicant's Privacy Rights: https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/compact-council/guiding-principles-agency-privacy-requirements-for-noncriminal-justice-applicants