Welcome to the NPA!

We welcome our new scientists to the NPA and look forward to working with you in the months and years to come! Included below are pertinent links and other information on our Professional Development Program for new scientists.

GOALS

1. To assist all newly appointed Category 1 and 4 scientists attain standards of performance that will enhance their opportunity for success within ARS. 
2. To ensure fairness and equity in evaluating professional scientific development.

SCOPE

The Newly Appointed Scientist Professional Development Program (NASPDP) provides a 3-year period to enhance a newly appointed scientist’s transition into an ARS scientific position and to carefully monitor and evaluate their progress.  This program covers all newly appointed Category 1 and 4 scientists, thereafter referred to as new scientists  [including research leaders (RL)] within the Northern Plains Area (NPA).  It includes all individuals hired under either merit or demonstration program authority and irrespective of their probationary status. 

Click on the following links for more information:

• Checking-in Topics for Newly Appointed Scientists
• 2007 Mentors of the Year

NASPDP Documents:

• Professional Development Program Information Letter (MS Word)
• Mentoring Handbook - July 2008 (Acrobat PDF)
• Results of Survey on the Mentoring Component: May 2006 (MS PowerPoint)
• Executive Summary - NASPDP Mentoring Survey Results - Summer 2007 (Acrobat PDF)

Back to Top