Research Geneticist; Plants

Job Summary

The incumbent is a Research Geneticist (Plants) for the Corn Insect & Plant Genetics Research Unit located in Ames, Iowa. Research projects focus on plant improvements, which may include agronomic qualities, nutritional quality, increased production, enhanced uses, or reduction of plant pathogen, pest, or abiotic stress impacts, using genetic/genomic approaches. The incumbent is responsible for devising, planning, conducting, and reporting research completed under assigned projects.

• Devise and plan research projects on plant genetic improvement.

• Conduct experiments, analyze data, and report findings.

• Apply genetic and genomic technologies to address crop productivity, disease resistance, pest resistance, abiotic stress tolerance, and consumer quality.

• Degree in genetics or a basic biological science that includes at least 9 semester hours in genetics.

• Graduate education must be directly related to genetics, or a curriculum with major emphasis on genetics. Graduate study in related fields (e.g., agronomy, horticulture, entomology, plant pathology, molecular biology, physiology) is qualifying if it places sufficient emphasis on genetics.

• Undergraduate coursework in genetics or related areas (including cytology, statistics, mathematics, population dynamics, or irradiation techniques) is acceptable when combined with other foundational genetics courses.

• Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree directly related to duties, or
• 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to GS‑11 level, or a combination of graduate education and specialized experience.

Specialized experience:

• Conducting research related to plant genetic improvement.
• Presenting research findings at scientific conferences or academic meetings.
• Publishing research results in peer‑reviewed scientific journals.

• 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to GS‑12 level.

Specialized experience:

• Planning and conducting research to improve crop productivity, disease and pest resistance, abiotic stress tolerance, or consumer quality.
• Presenting research findings at scientific conferences.
• Publishing research results as the primary author in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders.

• 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to GS‑13 level.

Specialized experience:

• Planning, conducting, and leading team research related to crop productivity, disease resistance, pest resistance, abiotic stress tolerance, and consumer quality.
• Presenting research findings at scientific conferences.
• Publishing independent research results as the primary author in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Establishing or expanding collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

• 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to GS‑14 level.

Specialized experience:

• Developing, executing, and managing a research program related to crop improvement.
• Presenting research findings at national and international scientific conferences.
• Publishing independent research findings related to crop improvement as the primary author in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Serving as Principal Investigator on a collaborative research grant.

Applicants must also meet any additional qualification requirements for the specific GS level, such as a Ph.D. for GS‑13 and above. Experience may include paid or unpaid work, including volunteer service through national service programs and other organizations. All qualifying experience, including volunteer work, may be credited.

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.