Research Ecologist/Entomologist, GS-0408/0414-12/13
Salary Range of $65,315.00 - $100,976.00 per year
The United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service,
Northern Plains Agricultural Research Laboratory, Pest Management Research
Unit in Sidney, Montana is seeking a permanent full-time Research
Ecologist/Entomologist as a lead investigator in biological control of
insect pests of the Northern Great Plains. The specific assignment focuses
on population, chemical or behavioral ecology of key insect pests and
biological control agents in the Northern Great Plains, biological control
of key agricultural insect pests, and characterization of ecological
interactions affecting insect pests and biological control agents. Potential
pests include, but are not restricted to, wheat stem sawfly, orange wheat
blossom midge, Haanchen mealybug, and Russian wheat aphid. The potential
range of responsibilities includes population, chemical, or behavioral
ecology studies of agents and pest insects; understanding the role of
tri-trophic interactions; insect rearing research in a quarantine facility,
including host-specificity tests of potential biological control agents in a
risk analysis context; implementation and release of biological control
agents; long-term field assessment and monitoring; overseas exploration for
biological control agents; and partnering with scientists domestically and
in other countries. The incumbent is personally responsible for planning,
executing, interpreting, and reporting results of experimental work, with
the ultimate goal of minimizing impacts of insect pest populations,
providing tools for integrated pest management and the reduction of
pesticide use, and quantifying the benefits and risks of biological control.
Comprehensive benefits package includes paid sick and annual leave, life
and health insurance, and a savings and investment plan (401 K type), in
addition to the Federal retirement plan. For details and applications
directions, see http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/. Reference Job Announcement
Number ARS-X8W-0170. To have a printed copy mailed, call 406-433-9485.
Additional information on the position can be obtained from Research Leader,
John Gaskin (406) 433-9444. Applications must be postmarked by April 21,
2008. U.S. citizenship is required. USDA/ARS is an equal opportunity
employer and provider.
