About This Role
This role involves serving as a support scientist and expert in isolating and identifying pathogenic bacteria and contaminants from various sources. The work includes studying the microbiological and immunological basis of pathogens, their transmission, and the control of infectious diseases, particularly in food, drugs, and animal products.
Responsibilities
- Plan and direct the development and modification of analytical methods or research projects to study the distribution of microorganisms in natural and manmade environments
- Develop new methods and validate them through collaborative studies, covering the full range of microbiological analysis of complex and unusual samples for research and development, regulatory, enforcement, and control activities
- Provide expert scientific advice to program staff and less experienced scientists on precedents, analytical methods, and instrumentation related to the scientific discipline
Requirements
- Degree in microbiology; or biology, chemistry, or basic medical science that included at least 20 semester hours in microbiology and other subjects related to the study of microorganisms, and 20 semester hours in the physical and mathematical sciences combining course work in organic chemistry or biochemistry, physics, and college algebra, or their equivalent
- OR Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in microbiology, biology, chemistry, or basic medical science that included courses as shown above, plus appropriate experience or additional education
- One year of qualifying experience at the GS-12 level in the Federal Government (private or public sector) performing the following tasks: applying advanced theories to design projects that represent significant improvement of a public health program; analyzing and interpreting scientific documents, technical data and/or opinions related to the full range of microbiological analysis; providing scientific advice and guidance to less experienced staff; and writing statistical and analytical reports on major scientific studies
- Official transcript, unofficial transcript, or a list including courses, grades earned, completion dates, and quarter and semester hours earned if claiming education as part of qualifications
- If using education completed in foreign colleges or universities, provide documentation that the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization specializing in interpretation of foreign education programs and deemed equivalent to an accredited U.S. education program
Important Details
Documenting Experience
- In accordance with Office of Personnel Management policy, federal employees are assumed to have gained experience by performing duties and responsibilities appropriate for their official series and grade level as described in their position description
