Biologist

Summary The National Wildlife Research Center (NWRC) is responsible for multi-disciplinary research related to wildlife damage management and wildlife disease mitigation. The incumbent will serve as a Computational Geneticist in the Wildlife Genetics Project. The principal roles of the position will be associated with applying and developing novel analyses to address applied questions using genomic data. Responsibilities The duties may include, but are not limited to: Integrate population genetic, statistical analysis, bioinformatics, and population simulations to address applied wildlife management questions. Primary data types include (in order of frequency): high density single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) genotypes, whole genome sequences, reduced representation genotypes (e.g., RADseq, hybrid capture). From non-model species, short-read amplicon sequences, microsatellite genotypes, and mtDNA sequences. Integrate established genetic analysis methods and develop new statistical analysis techniques to address novel questions in the field of human wildlife conflict. Contribute to the development of computational workflows/analysis pipelines so that robust analyses can be conducted efficiently to inform management actions. Work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment with an opportunity to mentor junior colleagues. Requirements Conditions of Employment Qualifications Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement, including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below. BASIC REQUIREMENT: Degree: biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position. OR Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as shown above, plus appropriate experience or additional education. In addition to the above, applicants must also have: FOR THE GS-11 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-09 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates: Experience analyzing large (>1000 individuals) genomic datasets produced with high-resolution genomic approaches (e.g., high-density SNP arrays, Whole Genome Sequencing, RADseq, or other approaches based on Next Generation Sequencing). Proficiency developing computer code is required with specific expertise in R, Linux/Unix bash scripting, and use of HPC schedule managers. Demonstrated experience applying statistical analyses to genomic data and translating results to management recommendations. Proficiency conducting genetically explicit simulations. Proven publication record represented by first author papers in the topic of applied wildlife genetics. OR 3 years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in Biology, Evolutionary Biology, Wildlife Ecology/Biology, Genetics, Conservation Biology, or Fisheries Ecology/Biology. Equivalent combinations of education and experience are qualifying for this grade level. TRANSCRIPTS are required if: This position requires specific coursework or a degree in a specific field to be basically qualified. You are qualifying for the position based on education. You are qualifying for this position based on a combination of experience and education. This education must have been successfully completed and obtained from an accredited school, college, or university COMBINATION OF EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE AT THE GS-11 GRADE LEVEL: Applicants may have combinations of successfully completed education and specialized experience to meet total qualification requirements. The total percentages must equal at least 100 percent to qualify for that grade level. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Education Please see above for education qualification requirement information. Additional Information Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP), Reemployment Priority List (RPL), or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP): Visit the OPM website for information on how to apply as a CTAP, RPL, or ICTAP eligible. To exercise selection priority for this vacancy, CTAP/RPL/ICTAP candidates must meet the basic eligibility requirements and all selective factors. CTAP/ICTAP candidates must be rated and determined to be well qualified (or above) based on an evaluation of the competencies listed in the How You Will Be Evaluated section. When assessed through a score-based category rating method, CTAP/ICTAP applicants must receive a rating of at least 85 out of a possible 100. First time hires to the federal government normally start at the lowest rate of the salary range for the grade selected. Travel, transportation, and relocation expenses will not be paid. Any travel, transportation, and relocation expense associated with reporting for duty will be the responsibility of the selected employee. Worksite Information: 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. Additional information regarding ad hoc, occasional, or reoccurring telework may be obtained at a later time from the hiring manager or program during the hiring process.