Leading National Biosecurity: Supervisory Research Microbiologist/VMO Role at USDA
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking a highly skilled and visionary leader to serve as a Supervisory Research Microbiologist or Veterinary Medical Officer for the Foreign Animal Disease Research Unit (FADRU). Located at the cutting-edge National Bio and Agro Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, Kansas, this role is critical to protecting the nation's agricultural economy and livestock industry.
Job Responsibilities
As a Research Leader, you will manage a diverse portfolio of basic and applied research. Key responsibilities include:
- Leading research on high-consequence transboundary animal diseases.
- Coordinating research strategies with the Area Office and the Office of National Programs.
- Overseeing facility operations and adhering to stringent biosafety regulations.
- Managing human and fiscal resources while fostering partnerships with universities and industry.
Requirements
Candidates must meet rigorous academic and professional standards. The following table highlights the essential requirements:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Education | Relevant Doctorate (DVM/VMD) or advanced degree in Microbiology |
| Experience | Specialized leadership experience at the GS-13/14 equivalent level |
| Security | Must pass high-risk background investigation |
| Health | Must pass medical standards for high-containment laboratory work |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $125,776 to $192,331 per year. Beyond compensation, employees enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including retirement, health insurance, and flexible work options.
Application Tips
- Keep your resume concise (maximum 2 pages).
- Provide clear documentation of your research achievements.
- Ensure your transcripts are readily available.
This is an exceptional opportunity to influence national agricultural policy and security. If you are prepared to lead in one of the most advanced biosecurity facilities in the world, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Supervisory Research Microbiologist / Veterinary Medical Officer Job Matters
Lead cutting-edge research at the forefront of national biosecurity and animal health defense in Manhattan, Kansas.
Supervisory Research Microbiologist / Veterinary Medical Officer Job Overview
The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is seeking a visionary Supervisory Research Microbiologist or Veterinary Medical Officer to serve as the Research Leader for the Foreign Animal Disease Research Unit (FADRU) at the National Bio and Agro Defense Facility (NBAF). This pivotal leadership role involves managing a high-consequence research program dedicated to protecting the nation's livestock from significant agricultural threats. You will oversee a multidisciplinary team, manage essential laboratory resources, and collaborate with federal partners to address critical challenges in veterinary science and transboundary disease control.
Requirements for Supervisory Research Microbiologist / Veterinary Medical Officer
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening and ongoing random testing
- Must undergo a comprehensive background investigation
- Ability to work in a high-security BSL-3/4Ag environment
- Must meet stringent physical and psychological medical standards for biocontainment
- For Microbiologist series: Degree in microbiology or biology/chemistry with 20+ hours of microbiology plus 20+ hours of physical/mathematical sciences
- For VMO series: DVM or equivalent from an AVMA-accredited institution or equivalent foreign degree verification
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Research Microbiologist / Veterinary Medical Officer
- Proven experience as a Research Leader or Manager at the GS-13 or GS-14 level
- Demonstrated history of managing research programs, facilities, and fiscal budgets
- Expertise in transboundary animal disease countermeasures
- Strong track record of collaboration with federal agencies and industry partners
- Certification by the American Board of Medical Microbiology or similar professional fellowship
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance packages
- ✓Competitive retirement programs (FERS/TSP)
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Flexible work arrangements including telework options (up to 4 days per week)
- ✓Relocation incentives authorized for eligible candidates
- ✓Extensive professional development and training opportunities
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Research Microbiologist / Veterinary Medical Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Research Microbiologist / Veterinary Medical Officer Job
- Review the full job announcement on the USAJobs portal.
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages, detailing your experience and accomplishments.
- Draft a one-page abstract of your MS thesis or PhD dissertation.
- Compile documentation of references, awards, and professional memberships.
- Submit all application materials via the USAJobs online application portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your account status for updates on the selection process.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
- Clearly link your work experience to the specific major duties listed in the announcement.
- Use the online questionnaire preview to understand how your competencies will be evaluated.
- Contact the agency representative early if you require reasonable accommodation or if you anticipate a hardship in submitting your application electronically.
- Check for email notifications in your USAJobs profile to ensure you do not miss communications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work environment like?
This position requires working within a high-containment biosafety level 3/4Ag facility, which mandates specific safety protocols, including strict decontamination procedures and physical medical clearances.
Is relocation assistance available?
Yes, recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for the right candidate; the final decision is determined by the hiring official at the time of the offer.
Can I work remotely?
While on-site research is central to the role, the position may be eligible for telework up to four days per week, depending on the duties and agency policy.
Job from Agricultural Research Service
The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is the USDA's principal in-house scientific research agency. ARS scientists work tirelessly to find solutions to agricultural problems that affect Americans every day—from field to table. Working at the NBAF means contributing to a world-class environment dedicated to high-consequence animal diseases.