Become a Leader in Conservation Genomics at the Smithsonian

The Smithsonian Institution invites world-class researchers to apply for the position of Supervisory Research Zoologist. This role represents a rare opportunity to direct the Center for Conservation Genomics within the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI). If you are a visionary scientist capable of leading complex research while mentoring the next generation of conservationists, this role is for you.

Job Responsibilities

As the lead of the Center for Conservation Genomics, your duties include:

Research Leadership: Designing and executing high-level investigations into genomic diversity, population history, and species distribution.
Strategic Oversight: Aligning research outcomes with the broader mission of the NZCBI.
Mentorship: Providing administrative and technical supervision to staff, fostering a culture of scientific excellence.
Consultation: Serving as a subject matter expert for federal agencies, universities, and international research partners.

Comparison of Requirements

Requirement Type	Detail
Academic	Degree in Zoology + 20 semester hours
Experience	1 Year at GS-14 level equivalent
Documents	2-Page Resume + Detailed CV
Clearance	High Risk (HR) Background Check

Requirements

To qualify, you must possess a degree in zoology or a field requiring 20 semester hours of related coursework. Beyond basic education, you must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 grade level, specifically focusing on complex conservation genomics research.

Salary Overview

The compensation for this position ranges from $169,279 to $197,200 per year, commensurate with federal pay scales and expertise.

Benefits

Employees of the Smithsonian enjoy a federal benefits package, including:

Health and Life Insurance
Retirement Programs
Flexible Spending Accounts
Paid Leave programs

Application Tips

Keep your resume to exactly two pages.
Avoid using verbatim language from the job description.
Include a comprehensive CV with your publications and grants.
If you are a federal employee, include your SF-50.

This role is more than a job; it is a chance to define the future of genetic conservation on a global scale. We encourage all qualified applicants to submit their materials before the September 8, 2026 deadline.

Why This Supervisory Research Zoologist Job Matters

Lead the future of conservation genomics at the world's most prestigious research complex.

Supervisory Research Zoologist Job Overview

The Smithsonian Institution's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) is seeking a visionary Supervisory Research Zoologist to spearhead the Center for Conservation Genomics. This leadership role involves driving complex research programs, advancing genomic technology, and influencing global conservation strategies from either Washington, D.C., or Front Royal, Virginia.

Requirements for Supervisory Research Zoologist

Must hold a degree in zoology or a closely related discipline with at least 20 semester hours in zoology/animal sciences.
Combination of education and experience equivalent to a zoology major plus specialized expertise.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-14 level.
Demonstrated expertise in conservation genomics research.
U.S. citizenship or ability to meet specific hiring authority requirements.
Completion of pre-employment background investigation and potential probationary period.
Registration with Selective Service (if male born after 12/31/59).

Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Research Zoologist

Proven track record of peer-reviewed publications in high-impact scientific journals.
Experience securing research grants and funding.
History of successful administrative and personnel leadership within a research setting.
Advanced technical skills in bioinformatics, eDNA, and transcriptomics.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal Health Insurance programs
✓Comprehensive life insurance options
✓Federal retirement savings programs
✓Flexible Spending Accounts
✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual
✓Long-term care insurance eligibility

💡 How to Apply Supervisory Research Zoologist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Supervisory Research Zoologist Job

Prepare a two-page resume highlighting specialized experience.
Compile a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) including publications and grants.
Gather relevant SF-50 forms if you are a current or former federal employee.
Apply through the official online portal before the September 8, 2026 deadline.
Complete the occupational questionnaire to be rated by HR specialists.

💡 General Tips

Do not copy language from the vacancy announcement; describe your actual accomplishments in your own words.
Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
Double-check that your SF-50 explicitly shows the duration of your current grade level.
Clearly define hours worked per week for all previous positions to ensure proper credit.
Preview the assessment questions before starting the application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work remotely for this position?

The position is eligible for telework, but it is not a fully remote role. Candidates must be able to report to the Washington, D.C. or Front Royal, VA duty locations.

What happens if I forget to submit my SF-50?

Failure to provide necessary documentation like the SF-50 can result in disqualification or loss of consideration for status-based hiring preferences.

Job from Smithsonian Institution

The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. Dedicated to the increase and diffusion of knowledge, the Smithsonian operates 21 museums and the National Zoo, consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible in wildlife science and public education.