Research Chemist

Organization
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Reference Code
ARS-OCD-2016-0176
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); Daniel K. Inouye U.S. Pacific Basin Agricultural Research Center in Hilo, Hawaii. The opportunity is available for the selected applicant to participate in chemical ecology research for tropical insect pests.

The participant will use gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GS-MS) technologies to analyze potential chemical attractants for coffee berry borer, melon fly, fruit piercing moth, and coconut rhinoceros beetle.  The participant will assist the mentor and other scientists in interpreting results generated by the analytical procedures.  The participant may assist the mentor with training technicians in GC-MS use.

The appointment is full-time for three months 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-appointment check and a full background investigation.

This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens.

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

Qualifications

To be eligible, applicants must have received a Doctorate degree in chemistry, entomology or a related field with experience in chemical ecology of invasive insect pests and currently be serving as a faculty member at a four year institution.  Experience with gas chromotograph-mass spectroscopy operation and analysis and in chemical ecology of insect pests is preferred.

Eligibility Requirements
  • Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
  • Degree: Doctoral Degree.
  • Discipline(s):
    • Chemistry and Materials Sciences (1 )
    • Life Health and Medical Sciences (1 )
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