This position serves as a Without Compensation Research Microbiologist within the Office of Research and Development (ORD). The VA Research Program strives to promote Veteran-centered care to improve patient experiences and outcomes across VA healthcare and community settings, and to advance value-driven care by providing Veterans the highest quality care at the lowest financial burden. Please note, there is no pay associated with this position.
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 09/18/2025.You may qualify based on your experience and/or education as described below: Experience: You must possess general experience (1) in any type of work that includes experience with genetic sequencing, gene disruption/amplification, cloning, synthesis of native and recombinant molecules, mammalian cell isolation and culture, microscopy, protein/ biochemical analyses, and in vivo model systems; or (2) experience performing cellular, protein, and molecular studies in vitro and in vivo to develop novel diagnostic, preventative, or therapeutic modalities. Specific experience with post-influenza MRSA pneumonia required. OR, Education: You must possess a graduate degree from an accredited college or university in a Biological Sciences field.(Copies of transcripts are required at the time of application). OR, Combination: Applicants may also combine education and experience to qualify at this level. You must have a combination of experience and education. You will be rated on the following Competencies for this position: Chemistry Critical Thinking Data Analysis Research Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Note: A full year of work is considered to be 35-40 hours of work per week. Part-time experience will be credited on the basis of time actually spent in appropriate activities. Applicants wishing to receive credit for such experience must indicate clearly the nature of their duties and responsibilities in each position and the number of hours a week spent in such employment. Physical Requirements: The work is predominantly sedentary. Typically, the employee sits comfortably to do the work. However, there will be some walking, standing, bending and carrying of items of moderate weight such as large binders, banker style file boxes, meeting materials, papers, books or small parts. Hand and eye coordination for delicate testing procedures may be the only special physical demand required to perform the work.
Perform cellular, protein, and molecular studies in vitro and in vivo to develop novel diagnostic, preventative, or therapeutic modalities. Oversee day-to-day research laboratory operations, including assigning work, grant applications and administration Plan and conduct experiments, gather and analyze new data, and prepare manuscripts. Analyze data using sophisticated lab equipment, computer technology, and statistical analysis. Establish scientific collaborations with investigators locally and internationally, participate in the local academic community, and serve on appropriate committees. Experience with genetic sequencing, gene disruption/amplification, cloning, synthesis of native and recombinant molecules, mammalian cell isolation and culture, microscopy, protein/ biochemical analyses, and in vivo model systems. Mentor undergraduate and graduate students as well as junior post-doctoral fellows. Ensure compliance with safety and security policies and procedures, report unsafe conditions, and maintain ethical practices. Work Schedule: Intermittent (Without Compensation)