Research Geneticist (Plants)

The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Forage Seed and Cereal Research Unit seeks a Research Geneticist, GS-0440-12/13/14/15 ($81,875 to $170,800 per annum, plus benefits). The position is located in Corvallis, OR and conducts research to i) develop genomic resources for perennial grasses, ii) investigate the genetic and molecular mechanisms in tall fescue and perennial ryegrass underlying priority stress tolerance and seed production traits, and iii) use genomics and genetic data to develop new breeding tools and methods and tests their effectiveness to accelerate genetic improvement of perennial grasses. Successful completion of this research will result in significantly improved genomic resources and ultimately new breeding tools and methods that will support the genetic improvement of grasses by public and private sector plant breeders. The Forage Seed and Cereal Research Unit is located in the Willamette Valley, a world center for grass seed production and home to several private grass seed breeding programs, presenting collaborative and tech transfer opportunities that can magnify the impact of the incumbent’s research. Further opportunities exist for collaboration with ARS and university scientists researching grass breeding, genetics, pathology, entomology, agronomy, abiotic stress tolerance, seed production and seed certification. The position is located on the campus of Oregon State University, which offers core services in genomics, biocomputing, and bioinformatics. Candidates with an interest in publicly-funded research to improve grass breeding methods, technology transfer, and an ability to engage with diverse public and private-sector individuals will be well positioned for success. Final grade level may be determined by a peer review panel.

Refer to: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/583385000 for further information for complete application instructions, and the full text announcement

ARS-D21Y-10942386-MDK

ARS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Provider