Advance Your Career in Toxicology with the Defense Health Agency
Are you a dedicated scientist looking to apply your expertise toward a mission of global importance? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently hiring for an Interdisciplinary position at the Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland. This role sits at the intersection of biological science and toxicology, offering a unique opportunity to shape occupational safety standards for the military and beyond.
Job Responsibilities
As an Interdisciplinary scientist, you will lead complex laboratory investigations. Your daily tasks include:
- Experimental Design: Plan and execute studies evaluating the effects of military-unique chemical compounds.
- Regulatory Compliance: Establish and enforce Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Data Synthesis: Analyze experimental data and translate it into peer-reviewed manuscripts and actionable technical reports.
- Technical Leadership: Serve as a subject matter expert on panels and working groups, representing the agency’s research findings.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Grade Level | Focus Area | Requirement Type |
|---|---|---|
| GS-11 | Standard laboratory tests & data gathering | Specialized Experience |
| GS-12 | Experimental design & risk assessments | Specialized Experience |
| GS-13 | Leading complex investigations & expert advocacy | Specialized Experience |
Requirements
This position requires candidates to demonstrate specialized experience in their respective scientific fields. Applicants must be U.S. Citizens and must provide clear, concise documentation of their professional experience. Because no substitution of education for experience is allowed, your resume must explicitly state your qualifying work history.
Salary Overview
The salary range for this role is highly competitive, spanning from $85,447 to $158,322 per year. Compensation is determined based on the GS-grade level and includes locality pay supplements.
Benefits
Employees of the DHA enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Flexible retirement options through the Federal Employees Retirement System.
- Significant annual leave and sick leave accrual.
- Potential recruitment incentives for top-tier candidates.
Application Tips
Success in your application starts with your resume. Remember: keep it under two pages, avoid jargon, and ensure every experience entry includes your start and end dates. Don't forget to submit your transcripts if they are required to support your academic qualifications.
If you are a passionate scientist eager to make an impact, the DHA offers a dynamic environment where your research directly contributes to public health and national security. Review your qualifications today and submit your application before the deadline.
Why This Interdisciplinary Job Matters
Advance your scientific career by safeguarding military readiness and public health through cutting-edge toxicological research at the Defense Health Agency.
Interdisciplinary Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking an expert Interdisciplinary scientist to join the Defense Centers for Public Health Toxicology Directorate at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland. This mission-critical role focuses on evaluating the pharmacological and toxicological impacts of military-specific compounds. You will play a vital role in developing safety guidelines, conducting complex laboratory experiments, and providing technical leadership to ensure the health and protection of service members and their families.
Requirements for Interdisciplinary
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must meet specific education or experience requirements for the Biologist (0401) or Toxicologist (0415) series.
- Must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-09, GS-11, or GS-12).
- Must be able to provide academic transcripts if qualifying based on education.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period is required.
- Must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service if applicable.
Preferred Qualifications for Interdisciplinary
- Proven track record in directing complex toxicological investigations.
- Experience in authoring comprehensive risk assessments and occupational exposure limits.
- Demonstrated ability to serve as a subject matter expert before interagency or technical working groups.
- Proficiency in drafting scientific research proposals and identifying data gaps.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous leave accrual
- ✓Potential for advanced leave accrual and hiring incentives for highly qualified candidates
💡 How to Apply Interdisciplinary Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Interdisciplinary Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents (transcripts, cover letter, etc.).
- Verify that your application is complete and submit before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must be exactly two pages or less; longer resumes will be automatically excluded.
- Use plain language and avoid internal acronyms to ensure the HR team understands your experience.
- Clearly list your work history with specific dates (month and year) and average hours worked per week.
- Review your application status frequently via the USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a security clearance required for this position?
No, this position is classified as Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk.
Can I substitute education for experience for this role?
No, for this specific announcement, you must meet the qualification requirements using experience alone.
What happens if my resume exceeds the two-page limit?
Per the announcement guidelines, resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration.
What is the closing date for this application?
Applications must be submitted by September 8, 2026.
Is telework an option?
This position is not listed as telework-eligible.
Job from Defense Health Agency
The Defense Health Agency is a vital component of the Department of Defense, serving as a strategic partner in the delivery of healthcare to more than 9.5 million uniformed service members and their families. Through the Defense Centers for Public Health, the agency conducts rigorous research to maintain the readiness of the Joint Force.