Research Ecologist

SummaryThis research ecologist supports the Southern Research Station (SRS), Center for Forest Disturbance Science Research Work Unit, located at the Forestry Sciences Laboratory at the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia. This scientist leads independent studies to develop understanding on how fire affects aspects of ecosystem function and improve management practices. For additional information about the duties of this position, contact Scott Goodrick, scott.l.goodrick@usda.gov 706-559-4237.ResponsibilitiesConduct scientific studies to identify mechanisms linking fire behavior and fire effects in frequently burned ecosystems.Describe aspects of fire behavior, fire effects and fuels in frequently burned ecosystems.Describe the effects of variation of intensity within fires.Devise management actions to mitigate the potential risks associated with wildfires and facilitate the application of prescribed fire.Develop management practices to sustain productive ecosystems in frequently burned ecosystems.Describe the connection between the combustion process and fuels and fire effects.Collaborate with other scientists, cooperators, and other research organizations to develop cooperative agreements, contracts, and other mutually beneficial activities.Represent an organization as a technical authority on the biogeochemistry of fire.Conduct and collect spatially explicit fire measurements at fine scales.Use technology such as high-resolution thermal imaging systems to connect how the patterns of burning impact post fire ecological processes such as biogeochemistry, vegetation productivity and carbon dynamicsRequirementsConditions of EmploymentQualificationsIn order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards. Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide university generated course descriptions to clarify the content of courses as necessary. This is a research scientist position and is classified under the scientist career plan. Research scientists have open-ended promotion potential. Research accomplishments and their impact on the duties and responsibilities of positions are evaluated periodically. The grade level is limited only by the individual's demonstrated ability to perform research of recognized importance to science and technology. Final grade level will be determined by a peer review panel. The purpose of the initial review panel is to determine the grade level upon entry into a position. Candidates being considered for this research position should provide a list of publications for which you have been an author, co-author, or contributor. If providing curriculum vitae, please incorporate all resume requirements identified in the REQUIRED DOCUMENTS section of this announcement, or submit a supplemental resume which includes all information required in addition to the curriculum vitae. Basic Education Requirement for Ecology Series (0408):https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0400/ecology-series-0408/Degree: biology, or a related field of science underlying ecological research that included at least 30 semester hours in basic and applied biological sciences. These hours must have included at least 9 semester hours in ecology, and 12 semester hours in physical and mathematical sciences. In addition to meeting the basic requirement, you must also possess experience or directly related graduate education as listed below. GS-12:One year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-11). To qualify, your experience at this level must include all of the following: Conducting the full cycle of scientific research (including identifying research topics, defining study objectives, organizing and conducting the research, interpreting the results, and presenting the findings in the form of reports, demonstrations, manuscripts, and other appropriate technology transfer activities) from in one or more of the following areas: fire ecology or biogeochemistry of wildland fire. Using high resolution infrared thermal imaging systems (for example, FLIR) for characterizing the fire environment including field deployment and post-processing, and using field-based sampling methods and spatial statistics. Forming, leading, and participating in research teams, regional, and/or national importance. Disseminating research findings at conferences or scientific meetings and publishing results in peer-reviewed journals. OR Conferred Ph.D. degree that included scientific research in areas related to the work of the position which is fire ecology and/or includes coursework in areas such as ecology, biogeochemistry and statistics as related to wildland fire. 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; religious; 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.EducationAdditional InformationField data collection related to this scientist's research often involves work while on active wildfires or prescribed fires. To work in this environment, you must possess or be able to obtain fire qualifications involving an arduous level pack test. WORK CAPACITY TEST (WCT) for Wildland Firefighters: This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the ARDUOUS level may be required. The Arduous fitness (Pack) test requires completing a three (3) mile hike within forty-five (45) minutes, while carrying a forty-five (45) pound pack. You are strongly encouraged to consult with your physician and begin training immediately if applying for this position. This announcement constitutes the required 30 days advanced notice for testing requirements. Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP), Reemployment Priority List (RPL), or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP): To exercise selection priority for this vacancy, CTAP/RPL/ICTAP candidates must meet the basic eligibility requirements and all selective factors. CTAP/ICTAP eligibles must meet the agency's definition for a quality candidate as provided in the How You Will Be Evaluated section of this announcement to be considered. The USDA Forest Service has legislative authority to recruit and fill Permanent (Career/Career-Conditional), Temporary, and Term Appointments under the USDA Demonstration Project. Under this authority, any U.S. citizen may apply. Government Housing is not available. Daycare facilities are not available. This position is eligible for telework and other flexible work arrangements.