Research Veterinary Medical Officer (Research Microbiologist)

Quick Facts

• Role: Research Veterinary Medical Officer / Research Microbiologist

• Focus: Arthropod-borne animal disease research (viral transmission, host susceptibility, immunology, countermeasures)

Description

Conduct research on arthropod-borne animal viruses to understand how transmission to livestock hosts occurs and how to break transmission cycles to prevent and control outbreaks. Perform in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo infection analyses to determine mammalian host susceptibility and to study transmission mechanisms between hosts and within host populations. Validate existing and/or develop countermeasures such as vaccines and diagnostic tests.

Responsibilities

• Study factors that permit transmission of target viruses to livestock hosts

• Determine mammalian host susceptibility through viral infection analysis (in vitro, ex vivo, in vivo)

• Elucidate viral transmission mechanisms to hosts, between hosts, and maintenance in host populations

• Validate and/or develop countermeasures, including vaccines and diagnostic tests, to control outbreaks

Requirements

• US Citizen or US National

• Selective Service registration or exemption (for eligible males born after 12/31/1959)

• Satisfactory background investigation and/or fingerprint check adjudication

• Completion of required probationary periods

• Direct Deposit requirement

• Successful completion of E-Verify employment verification

• Successful completion of required drug testing

• Vaccine(s) required

• Motor Vehicle or Commercial Driver’s License required

• SAC and full background investigation required for positions working with BSL-3 (or higher) agents or BSL-3/BSL-4 facilities

• DOJ Security Risk Assessment (SRA) approval required; USDA/DOJ clearances and related training for select agent programs

• Participation in and adherence to the facility’s Personal Reliability Program

• Meet GS-12 through GS-15 specialized experience and/or education requirements defined by the posting, including doctoral-level education or equivalent advanced training in relevant veterinary/microbiology fields

Benefits

A comprehensive federal employee benefits package is available; eligibility depends on the type of position and coverage.