Research Microbiologist (Virology)

Agricultural Research Service; Manhattan (KS); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 192,000; Full time

Job summary

Agricultural Research Service in Manhattan, KS seeks a Research Microbiologist to lead research on classical swine fever, host-pathogen interactions, and methods for prevention, rapid detection and control.

The incumbent will develop an independent research program in collaboration with the NBAF and must meet biocontainment and safety requirements; telework is eligible where appropriate, and a Secret security clearance is required.

Responsibilities

• Develops an independent research program that will elucidate gaps in our knowledge regarding CSF viral infection, evolution, and host-pathogen interaction to develop adequate prevention and control measures to protect and support US Farmers.

Job description

• Hiring Agency: Agricultural Research Service

The incumbent serves as a Research Microbiologist and conducts research to elucidate the host-pathogen relationship and to use that knowledge to develop methods to improve the prevention, rapid detection and control of classical swine fever (CSF) in the Foreign Animal Disease Research Unit (FADRU) at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan, KS.

Key Responsibilities

Develops an independent research program that will elucidate gaps in our knowledge regarding CSF viral infection, evolution, and host-pathogen interaction to develop adequate prevention and control measures to protect and support US Farmers.

Requirements & Education

Please see above for education qualification requirement information.

Personal Recognizance Quarantine (PRQ) Due to the contagious nature to livestock of classical swine fever, African swine fever, foot-and-mouth disease, and other diseases under study at NBAF, Select Agent Regulations specify a personal quarantine for the incumbent entering biocontainment.

As a condition of employment, all personnel entering biocontainment facilities at NBAF must not be in contact with specific susceptible animals for a period of five (5) days after leaving biocontainment. Currently, restricted species include cattle, sheep, goats, deer, other ruminants, and swine.

Contact with horses, birds (agricultural and pet birds) and rabbits are normally permitted, but restrictions may be placed on staff working with or near-contagious agents affecting these species. Restricted livestock or other restricted animal may not be housed on the premises where the employee lives and where quarantine cannot be enforced. Incumbents who violate this requirement may be removed from employment or may be subject to other disciplinary action.

Medical confidentiality will be maintained by the examining physician and only fitness (or unfit) for duty determinations will be indicated. As required, periodic fitness for duty physicals will be scheduled. In addition, medical clearance will be required if it becomes necessary to enter an area where an air purifying respirator or other respiratory protection is required.

Which agency is hiring for this position?

This position is with Agricultural Research Service, Department of Agriculture.

What is the salary for this position?

The posted pay range is $89508 – $192331/yr.

Is this position remote or telework eligible?

This position is eligible for telework.

What security clearance is required?

This position requires a Secret security clearance.

What is the application deadline?

Applications close on 2026-12-07.

Who is eligible to apply?

This position is open under the 'Fed Transition' hiring path.