Research Chemist

Agricultural Research Service • Stuttgart, AR

15h • Hybrid

About The Position

This position is with the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Dale Bumpers National Rice Research Center in Stuttgart, Arkansas. The Research Chemist conducts research to improve the chemical, nutritional, and functional quality of U.S. rice. The work includes analyzing grain composition and studying how its components affect milling, cooking, and processing quality; developing and refining analytical methods to support breeding programs; and collaborating with multidisciplinary research partners. The position also investigates how storage, processing, environmental stressors, and potential contaminants affect grain quality. Findings are shared with stakeholders to enhance the quality, value, and competitiveness of U.S. rice in domestic and international markets.

The position has open-ended promotion potential based on demonstrated research ability and the impact of research accomplishments. Grade level may be determined by a peer review panel. It may be eligible for telework up to four days per week and flexible work arrangements, subject to agency policy and applicable collective bargaining agreements. Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized at the hiring official’s discretion.

Requirements

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
• Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with Selective Service or exempt.
• Must pass background investigation and/or fingerprint check, as applicable.
• Must successfully complete a one-year probationary period unless previously served, and a three-year probationary period as stated in the announcement.
• Must use direct deposit for federal payments.
• Must successfully pass E-Verify employment verification.
• Basic education requirement: a degree in physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that includes 30 semester hours in chemistry, mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics; or equivalent coursework plus appropriate experience or additional education.
• For GS-12, must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-11 conducting laboratory studies on chemical, nutritional, or functional properties of relevant materials; collecting and interpreting research data and preparing scientific reports, presentations, or publications; and assisting with analytical-method development or improvement while working with others on research projects. Alternatively, a directly related Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree, or an equivalent combination of graduate education and experience, may qualify.
• For GS-13, must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-12 planning and conducting independent chemistry research involving relevant materials; developing or validating analytical methods and interpreting complex scientific data; and publishing research findings and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
• For GS-14, must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-13 leading an independent research program on the chemical, nutritional, or functional quality of relevant materials; developing analytical approaches and establishing research priorities; and publishing peer-reviewed research while providing scientific leadership through collaboration with research partners and stakeholders.
• Applicants must meet qualification and eligibility requirements by the announcement closing date and be available to report for duty when selected.
• A one-page abstract of an MS thesis and/or Ph.D. dissertation is strongly recommended; failure to submit one could result in loss of consideration or referral.
• Applicants are asked to submit information about professional stature and contributions, recognition, honors and awards, memberships, presentations, professional service, and publications.

Nice To Haves

• A Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree directly related to the position, such as Chemistry, Food Science, Biochemistry, Crop Science, or Agronomy, may qualify for GS-12.
• Submission of a one-page abstract of an MS thesis and/or Ph.D. dissertation is strongly recommended.

Responsibilities

• Analyze grain composition, including starch, protein, lipids, minerals, and bioactive compounds, and determine how these components affect milling, cooking, and processing quality.
• Develop and refine analytical methods using advanced instrumentation to support high-quality phenotyping for breeding programs.
• Collaborate with breeders, geneticists, agronomists, and postharvest scientists to identify biochemical traits influenced by genetics, environment, and management practices.
• Assess the effects of storage, processing, and environmental stressors on grain quality and potential contaminants.
• Generate high-quality analytical data to advance understanding of rice’s chemical, nutritional, and functional properties.
• Share findings with stakeholders to enhance rice quality, value, and competitiveness in U.S. and international markets.

Benefits

• Comprehensive federal employee benefits package for employees and their families; specific benefits depend on position type.
• Recruitment or relocation incentive may be authorized at the hiring official’s discretion.
• Potential telework eligibility up to four days per week and flexible work arrangements, subject to agency policy and applicable collective bargaining agreements.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level