Supervisory Research Geneticist (Plants) / Plant Pathologist Research Leader

USDA; Aberdeen (ID); On-site; USD 126,000 - 192,000; Full time

Job summary

USDA’s Aberdeen, Idaho-based Small Grains and Potato Germplasm Research Unit seeks a Supervisory Research Geneticist (Plants) / Plant Pathologist Research Leader. The role leads a team researching genomic tools for germplasm improvement, disease resistance, and quality traits.

Responsibilities include directing breeding and pathology work, publishing results, and managing unit resources. U.S. citizenship is required; position open until Nov 27, 2026.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team conducting genomic breeding and pathology research.
• Develop and apply genomic molecular tools for germplasm enhancement and disease resistance.
• Publish results in professional articles and abstracts and present at conferences.

Job description

“The premier food and agricultural research agency of USDA”

Position: Supervisory Research Geneticist (Plants)/ Plant Pathologist

Salary Range: $125,776.00 to $192,331.00/ Per Year

The Small Grains and Potato Germplasm Research Unit in Aberdeen, Idaho is seeking a Supervisory Research Geneticist (Plants) / Plant Pathologist Research Leader. The objectives for the research unit are broad, encompassing breeding and pathology of small grains and potatoes, cereal chemistry and cereal chemistry genetics, small grains germplasm maintenance and evaluation, and rainbow trout genetics, nutrition, physiology, and feed technology. The Small Grains and Potato Germplasm Research Unit Research Leader works closely with important agricultural stakeholders including growers' groups, seed companies, plant breeders and research colleagues to optimally transfer USDA research technology to a broad audience. Prepares written work products based on research to be reviewed and/or published in professional articles, publications, and technical abstracts. Maintains and enhances the research creativity and productivity of the unit. Hires personnel and manages the human, fiscal, and physical resources of the unit. Serves as the unit fund holder. Provides technical information and consultation, both internal and external, to Agricultural Research Service (ARS). Ensures the proper interpretation and reporting of scientific research, results, and information.

As Research Leader, the incumbent will lead a team and perform research to develop, evaluate, and apply genomic molecular tools for germplasm enhancement, such as disease resistance or quality traits. The current vacancy is assigned to work on small grains (barley and oats). The candidate will collect, analyze, summarize, and publish technical information pertaining to improved cultivars meeting the needs of conventional and specialty markets for both dryland and irrigated production systems in the Western U.S. For more information on the research unit, please visit https://www.ars.usda.gov/pacific-west-area/aberdeen-id/small-grains-and-potato-germplasm-research/.

This vacancy is open until Nov 27, 2026 unless further extended. U.S. citizenship is required for this permanent position.

** USDA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Provider **