Forensic Biologist

Summary The Applied Genetics Group was formed to focus on developing standards and technology to aid human, plant, and animal identification and to benefit agricultural, law enforcement, and clinical applications using genetic information. This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit new talent to occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates. Learn more about this agency Duties In this position, you will: Prepare DNA samples for next-generation sequencing by performing targeted PCR library preparation methods. Quantify and purify sequencing libraries for next-generation sequencing methods. Operate and maintain next generation sequencing platforms. Maintain laboratory equipment through service calls, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and service contracts. Manage lab supplies and consumables inventory. Assist in the general upkeep of molecular biology laboratories and maintain pre-PCR clean conditions. Execute experiments using capillary electrophoresis and PCR to characterize in-house DNA extracts and DNA-Base reference materials. Conduct experiments to quantify DNA using PCR-based assays. Perform analysis, organization, storage, and representation of data. Operate Rapid DNA typing platforms to generate DNA profiles. Requirements Conditions of employment U.S. citizenship Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service Suitable for Federal employment Bargaining Unit Position: No Travel Required 25% or less as needed Qualifications Individual Occupational Requirements Basic Requirements 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 in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education. In addition to the basic requirement outline above, this position requires one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-9 (ZP-2 at NIST) level. Specialized experience is defined as: 1) Assisting in the setup and operation of PCR equipment and DNA quantification platforms.; 2) Supporting the preparation of samples for Next Generation sequencing methods under general technical guidance from a supervisor; 3) Assisting in the basic operation and maintenance of Rapid DNA testing platforms, following established protocols OR Master's or equivalent graduate degree OR A combination of education and experience. 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, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook. If requesting reconsideration of your qualification determination, please refer to the following site: Applicant Reconsideration Education This position has an education requirement. Transcripts must be submitted to validate that the education requirement has been met. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. However, an official copy will be required before a final offer of employment. Use of foreign education for qualifications. An accredited organization must evaluate education completed outside of the U.S. to ensure that it is comparable to education received in accredited institutions in the U.S. Click here to view a listing of accredited organizations from the Department of Education's website. A copy of the foreign education evaluation (containing the results with course-by-course listing) is required with your application. Additional information This position is covered under NIST's Alternative Personnel Management System (APMS), a pay-for-performance system with excellent HR flexibilities to help NIST recruit and retain top talent. Learn more about the APMS here! We may share your application package with other selecting officials. Additional selections may be made through this vacancy. Click all links in this vacancy announcement to view additional information or instructions. You MUST select at least ONE ELIGIBILITY to be considered for this position. All documents submitted for this announcement must be legible to make qualification or eligibility determinations. A probationary period may be required. NIST strives to build a flexible and encouraging work environment to bring out the best in our employees. To help our employees balance responsibilities at home and at work, NIST offers a variety of work-life flexibilities. For more information, please visit our Careers website. Expand Hide  additional information Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution. Benefits A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits. Review our benefits Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.