THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF
AGRICULTURE IS AN EQUAL
OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:  The incumbent's overall responsibility is to evaluate swine influenza A virus (SIV) isolates through in vivo pathogenesis and transmission studies, antigenic characterization, and molecular analysis in support of a national SIV surveillance program.  Specific goals are to evaluate contemporary evolution of swine influenza viruses to identify viruses that potentially pose a threat to swine and human health and identify cross-reactive isolate(s) to improve diagnostic assays as well as serve as candidates for improved commercial SIV vaccines.  The position is within the Swine Viral Diseases Pathogenesis and Immunology project in the Virus and Prion Diseases of Livestock Research Unit.  Scientists in this unit maintain a comprehensive SIV research program including investigation of virulence mechanisms, vaccinology, immunology, and epidemiology.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: The research assignment requires a PhD degree with emphasis on the disciplines of microbiology, immunology, or pathology, and/or a DVM degree with a knowledge of veterinary science and additional knowledge of research and research techniques.  Knowledge of virology and molecular biology techniques and the use of animal models for disease are preferred.

INFORMATION ON SALARY AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES FOR POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS is available at: http://www.afm.ars.usda.gov/divisions/hrd/hrdhomepage/vacancy/pd962.html

INFORMATION ON EMPLOYEE BENEFITS is available at: http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/ei61.asp

FOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION ON THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THIS POSITION OR TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION, CONTACT:

Dr. Amy L. Vincent, DVM, Ph.D.
USDA/ARS National Animal Disease Center
2300 Dayton Avenue
PO Box 70
Ames, IA  50010
Phone: 515-663-7557
FAX: 515-663-7458
Email: amy.vincent@ars.usda.gov