Onalaska, WI

Position Title: Geneticist

Organization: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

Duties:

• Provides overall technical coordination of complex molecular genetic analyses for a
  variety of projects working with different aquatic species and genetic analysis
  methods in the Whitney Genetics Lab, with emphasis on environmental DNA
  (eDNA) marker development and testing for species identification, quantitative PCR
  for eDNA analyses, and metabarcoding for eDNA analysis. This coordination will
  ensure data standardization, consistency, and quality control; optimization of
  information; and technical coordination among projects in order to identify
  information “gaps” and prevent duplication of effort.
• Uses DNA markers and automated DNA analyzers/sequencers to collect genotypic
  and DNA sequence data on aquatic species. These procedures include extraction
  and archiving of DNA, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of target
  genes/sequences, operation and maintenance of sophisticated laboratory
  equipment including quantitative PCR machines, automated liquid handling
  systems, and next-gen DNA sequencers, and generation, storage, and back-up of
  electronic genetic data files.
• Works as a team leader or as a member of a team to conduct complex molecular
  genetic analyses for a variety of projects working with environmental samples, fish
  species, and genetic analysis methods (e.g. to detect and monitor aquatic invasive
  species or threatened and endangered species, determine genetic similarities and
  relationships, assign individuals to population of origin, quantify levels of genetic
  variation within and among populations, and identify species).
• Performs statistical analyses and generates graphical representations of study
  results, maintains results in databases, and incorporates these data into written
  reports, scientific publications, and oral presentations. Statistical methods include
  but are not limited to: analysis of environmental DNA detection data, bioinformatic
  analysis of high throughput DNA sequence data, analyses of genetic variation
  within and among populations, and analysis of genetic population structure.

Qualifications:

In order to qualify for this position you must possess both the Basic Requirement and Minimum Qualification.

Basic Requirement:

1. Possess a degree with a major in genetics; or one of the basic biological sciences that included at least 9 semester hours in genetics.

Minimum Qualification [GS-11]

1. One year of specialized experience comparable in scope and responsibility equivalent to grade GS-09 level in the Federal service. Examples of qualifying specialized experience may include: (1) operating specialized molecular genetics laboratory equipment such as next-gen DNA sequencers; (2) Utilizes molecular genetic techniques including next-gen library prep of DNA; (3) Utilize genetic concepts and principles to design and analyze data using bioinformatic workflows and writing python scripts (or other programming language); (4) conduct statistical analysis of genetic data; and (5) Communicate study results to diverse audiences. OR
2. Possess a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or have successfully completed 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. in genetics or another closely related field which places sufficient emphasis on genetics and which provided the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the work of the position. You must upload a copy of your transcript.. OR
3. A combination of education and experience as described in 1 and 2 above which together equals 100% of the requirement.

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.

Salary/Pay: $72,553 – $94,317 per year

Application Deadline: 06/26/2024

How to Apply: Please use the online application to view the full job description as well as how to apply.