Research Chemist Opportunity

Organization
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Reference Code
ARS-FAPRU-2015-0129
How to Apply

A complete application package consists of:

  • An application
  • Transcript(s) – For this opportunity, an unofficial transcript or copy of the student academic records printed by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institution systems may be submitted.  Selected candidate must provide proof of completion of the degree before the appointment can start.  Proof must be sent to ORISE directly from the academic institution including graduation date and degree awarded.  All transcripts must be in English or include an official English translation.
  • A current resume/CV

If you have questions, send an email to USDA-ARS@orau.org.  Please include the reference code for this opportunity in your email.

Description

A research chemist opportunity is available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Forage Animal Production Research Unit (FAPRU) in Lexington, Kentucky.

Through the direction of the mentor, the participant will use mass spectroscopy technologies to meet specific goals that include identification and characterization of compounds that control plant, microbe and animal physiology.  Additionally, the participant will assist the mentor and other Unit scientists to meet research goals that include, but are not limited to: the effects of primary and secondary plant metabolites on ruminant performance and well-being, effects of environmental pressures on forage plant development, and bioconversion of lignocellulosic plant tissues for agricultural and industrial use.  The participant will advise the mentor on maintenance of analytical instruments and the purchasing of supplies and materials.  The participant will also assist scientists in interpreting results of outputs generated by the participant's analytical procedures.  The candidate will have the opportunity to travel and participate in scientific conferences and workshops.

The appointment is full-time for one year and may be renewed based upon recommendation of the ARS and availability of funding.  The selected applicant will receive a stipend as support for their living and other expenses during this appointment.  Stipend rates are determined by ARS officials, and are based on the applicant’s academic and professional background.  The participant must show proof of health and medical insurance.  Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.  The participant will not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, USDA, ARS, or any other office or agency.  Instead, the participant will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.

While participants will not enter into an employment relationship with ARS, this position requires a pre-employment check and a full background investigation.

This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens.

This is an equal opportunity program open to all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, mental or physical disability, covered veteran’s status or genetic information.

For more information about the ARS Research Participation Program, please visit the Program Website.

Qualifications

To be eligible, applicants must have a Doctorate degree in chemistry, biochemistry or a related field, and have experience in running mass spectrometers and interpreting mass spectra.  Broad knowledge of chemistry and biochemistry is necessary.  Candidates must have theoretical and practical knowledge of both small molecules and macromolecules or biological polymers.

Eligibility Requirements
  • Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
  • Degree: Doctoral Degree.
  • Discipline(s):
    • Chemistry and Materials Sciences (3 )
    • Life Health and Medical Sciences (4 )
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