Biostatistician Job

Vacancy No. EPA-NF-42-2025-0002 Department Environmental Protection Agency
Salary $191,900.00 to $250,000.00 Grade B to B
Perm/Temp Temporary FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 11/13/2024 Close Date 12/16/2024
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Washington, DCDurham, NCCincinnati, OH


Summary

This Title 42 position is located in the Office of Research and Development, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Chemical and Pollutant Assessment Division in Washington, DC. About the Office of Research and Development.

This is an office-centered position--you must physically report to the duty station stated in this announcement on a regular basis. Partial work-from-home flexibilities may be authorized.

Duties

The Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment (CPHEA) develops human health and environmental assessments that support EPA program and regional policies and decisions.

CPHEA conducts toxicological, clinical, ecological, epidemiological, and citizen science studies to assess the impact of environmental exposures to chemicals and other stressors on healthy individuals, populations, and ecosystems, emphasizing people and ecosystems most susceptible to the adverse effects of such exposures. Within CPHEA sits the Chemical and Pollutant Assessment Division (CPAD), whose scientists develops range of fit-for-purpose human health risk assessment products based on evaluating, synthesizing, and analyzing the most up-to-date scientific information. Products include the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) and Provisionally Peer Reviewed Toxicity Values (PPRTV) assessments. These products are developed through interactions with EPA’s program and regional offices, other agencies, the scientific community, industry, policymakers, and the public. Once finalized, they serve as major scientific accomplishments supporting EPA’s regulations, advisories, policies, enforcement, and remedial action decisions. CPAD also provides extensive technical support to other parts of EPA and conducts research to develop innovative human health risk assessment methods (e.g., dose-response and physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling, systematic review methods) as well as tools and models (e.g., benchmark dose modeling software). Together, the combination of assessment and the Strategic Research Action Plan (StRAP) research projects contribute to the Office of Research and Development (ORD) fulfilling its strategic goals.

This position will require an internationally recognized expert and leader with a unique combination of scientific expertise and specialized experience that merges mathematical statistical research techniques with risk assessment relevant applications in biology, epidemiology, and physical science. This is a Category B position under the agency’s Title 42 program in ORD. Appointments made under this special hiring authority are term appointments of up to five years, which are renewable. This Senior Scientist position is located in CPAD of CPHEA and will report to the CPAD Director.

Specific responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:

- Providing leadership to statistical multidisciplinary teams to address research and development statistical needs for conducting human health assessments. 

- Determining statistical methods and performing analysis of biological or human data to meet major human health risk assessment needs.

- Identifying cross-cutting issues and developing new and improved quantitative approaches. 

- Providing consultations, rapid analyses in response to agency needs, responses to congressional and litigation-related inquiries, and presentations on quantitative assessments and analyses.

- Managing extramural grants and contracts related to the conducted research.

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

  • You must be a U.S. citizen.
  • You must submit a resume and required documents--see How to Apply section.
  • Position has education requirements--see Qualifications/Education section.
  • EPA and non-EPA applicants must submit transcripts/course listings.

The Ethics in Government Act, P.L. 95-521, requires the applicant selected for this position to submit a financial disclosure statement, OGE-278, prior to assuming the Title 42 position, annually, and upon termination of employment.

This position is designated as High Risk and requires a background investigation. Unless an appropriate background investigation is already on record with the Office of Personnel Management, you must undergo a background investigation. All conditions of the pre-employment security process must be met before an official letter of employment can be issued with a report for duty date.

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Qualifications

To meet qualifications you must have a doctoral degree in one of the following: statistics or biostatistics, or a different field with at least 24hrs of statistics or biostatistics.  You must be an internationally recognized authority and leader on complex problems of concern to EPA’s research. You must be nationally and internationally recognized authority and leader in biometric and statistical risk assessment or statistical research applications directly relevant for CPAD’s work in quantitative human health risk assessment. Your reputation as a statistical scientific leader in statistical sciences is such that you may also serve as a recruiting attraction for recent graduates who seek opportunities to work under your inspiration and guidance to learn from your critical judgment and scientific leadership.

You must have experience in merging mathematical statistical research techniques and studies with risk assessment applications in biology, epidemiology, and physical science.

As evidence of your qualifications, you should document significant accomplishments in statistical research and application of statistical methods in solution of important scientific problems relevant to risk assessment. In addition, as evidence of your qualifications and scientific contributions, you may also: 1) Have an extensive publication record including numerous book chapters and peer-reviewed publications in high-quality journals; 2) holding elected position(s) in scientific societies; 3) serving on editorial boards of scientific journals; 4) receiving an extensive number of invitations to write and speak on issues in your field; 5) serving in leadership roles on important task forces or committees; and 6) serving as an advisor to national or international institutions or governments.

Education

You must have a doctoral degree (Ph.D or D.Sc) in one of the following: statistics or biostatistics, or a different field where the research was concentrated on statistical applications, such as biological sciences, medicine, or physical sciences.

Biology: You must have a bachelor's or higher degree from an accredited or pre-accredited college or university in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position; OR a combination of education and experience with courses equivalent to a major, as listed.

Physical Science: You must have a bachelor's or higher degree from an accredited or pre-accredited college or university in physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics; OR a combination of education and experience with education equivalent to one of the majors listed that included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

Statistics: You must have a bachelor's or higher degree from an accredited or pre-accredited college or university that included 15 semester hours in statistics (or in mathematics and statistics, provided at least 6 semester hours were in statistics), and 9 additional semester hours in one or more of the following: physical or biological sciences, medicine, education, or engineering; or in the social sciences including demography, history, economics, social welfare, geography, international relations, social or cultural anthropology, health sociology, political science, public administration, psychology, etc.; OR a combination of education and experience with courses equivalent to a major, as listed.

For information about accreditation requirements, visit EPA Announcement Policies and Procedures.

Additional information

The salary may be up to $250,000 per year. However, this is dependent on qualifications, experience, and other factors (e.g., current salary and/or current market rates).

The selectee's academic credentials will be verified upon selection.

EPA participates in E-Verify. E-Verify is an Internet based system operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in partnership with the Social Security Administration (SSA) that enables participating employers to electronically verify the employment eligibility of their newly hired employees. For additional information: EPA Announcement Policies and Procedures.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values at EPA. Our excellence can only be fully realized by staff who share our commitment to these values. Successful candidates are committed to advancing equity and inclusion in the Agency’s workplace and mission. We encourage applications from candidates with a variety of personal experiences, values, and worldviews that arise from differences of culture and circumstance. At EPA, diversity is a vital element in bringing a balance of perspectives to bear on every challenge we face. We are committed to creating a diverse workforce because we know that the individual strengths and abilities of our employees make us a stronger organization. The more inclusive our employee base is, the greater the variety of ideas that are generated, and the more representative we are of the nation we serve. To learn more about how EPA values and supports our diverse workforce, visit Equal Opportunity Employment at EPA.

If you are selected, travel, transportation, and relocation expenses will not be paid by EPA. Any travel, transportation, and relocation expenses associated with reporting to work in this position will be your responsibility.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Join EPA in protecting human health and the environment and enjoy many work life quality options! Working for the EPA offers you a comprehensive benefits package that includes, in part, paid vacation, sick leave, holidays, life insurance, health benefits, and participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System. To learn more about us, visit Life and Careers at EPA.

This position may be eligible for workplace flexibilities including expanded telework, remote work, and/or flexible work schedules. These flexibilities may be requested in accordance with EPA’s Workplace Flexibilities policy. If selected for this position, you may be authorized to telework after meeting eligibility requirements if approved by the supervisor/manager. 

PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS (PSLF):  As a federal employee, you may be eligible for student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. The PSLF program forgives the remaining balance on federal Direct Loans after you have made 120 qualifying payments while working full-time for a qualifying employer, including EPA. Learn more:  pslf.gov

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

This position is being filled through the Title 42 hiring authority. Your resume and required documents will be reviewed to ensure you meet the basic qualifications requirements. You will be evaluated on the basis of meeting the qualifications stated in this announcement. In determining the degree to which candidates possess the required or desired knowledge, skills, and abilities, an evaluation panel will consider related experience, education, training, awards, and professional references. The evaluation panel will rate you on the following criteria:

  1. scientific expertise;
  2. leadership and management;
  3. communications; and
  4. networking and collaboration.

You may preview questions for this vacancy.

Required Documents

Documents to be submitted online:

NOTE: You should ensure your social security number, date of birth, and any other personal information are redacted.

The following documents are required for all applicants; failure to provide this information will result in your application being ruled incomplete.

-- Resume/curriculum vitae - State your education and experience related to this position as described in the Duties section and Qualifications section. In describing your experience, be clear and specific. We may not make assumptions regarding your experience. A resume is acceptable, but a curriculum vitae is preferred.

-- Statement of interest - Address the following criteria within a limit of four (4) pages total:

  1. Scientific expertise: describe your achievements in the area of research applicable to this position, including awards or other recognition and invitations to present or speak;
  2. Leadership and management: describe your experience leading and managing scientific research programs;
  3. Communications: describe your experience communicating scientific and technical information verbally and in writing to a variety of audiences; and
  4. Networking and collaboration: describe your experience building and maintaining relationships and collaborating with other scientists or organizations.

-- Transcripts - Attach unofficial or official transcripts or a list of courses that includes school(s) attended, school address, course title, grades earned, completion dates, department, and quarter or semester hours earned. NOTE: Official educational transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if you are selected, you must provide official transcripts before you start work with EPA.
IF EDUCATION WAS COMPLETED AT A FOREIGN INSTITUTION: You must submit an equivalency evaluation with your application as described here: EPA Announcement Policies and Procedures.

The following information is requested, but not required at the time of application:

  • The names and contact information of three references.
  • Compensation requirements.
  • How you heard about this vacancy.

To learn more about submitting documentation, visit Uploading Documents to USAJOBS.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

How to Apply

You are strongly encouraged to read the entire announcement before you submit your application for this position.

To begin the application process, click the Apply button to the top right on this screen, follow the prompts to log-in/register, submit all required documents, and complete the assessment questionnaire. To be considered, you must submit a complete application package by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on the day the announcement closes.

All required supporting documents will be collected electronically via the USAJOBS document portfolio feature.

If you cannot apply online, you must contact the Human Resources Office listed below for assistance no later than two business days prior to the closing date of this announcement. You must provide complete application materials by the day the announcement closes.

For detailed instructions to assist you in ensuring your application package is received, go to EPA Announcement Policies and Procedures.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION

EPA welcomes applications from persons with disabilities. Through the reasonable accommodation process, we provide persons with disabilities an equal opportunity to enjoy the benefits and privileges of employment that persons without disabilities enjoy. A reasonable accommodation is any change in the work environment or in the way things are customarily done. An accommodation removes workplace barriers and enables an applicant with a disability to have an equal opportunity to participate in the application process, be considered for a position, and, if hired, perform the essential functions of their job.

The EPA National Reasonable Accommodation Coordinators will provide assistance to you, the Human Resources Office, and/or the hiring official as needed. For more information, refer to EPA’s Reasonable Accommodation website. Below is more detailed information about how to request a reasonable accommodation during the application, selection, and hiring process:

    • If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process (submitting the application or completing the application process), contact the Human Resources Office listed below no later than two business days prior to the closing date of this announcement, and the Human Resources Office will work directly with you.
    • If you are referred to the hiring official for consideration and need an accommodation during the selection process, including the interview, notify the person who contacted you from the hiring official’s office. If you do not hear back within three days about your reasonable accommodation request for the selection process, please notify EPA’s National Reasonable Accommodation Coordinators via email at disabilityaccommodations@epa.gov.
    • If you are selected and need an accommodation during the hiring process up to orientation, notify the HR Specialist who made the job offer to you.

Please note: Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.

Agency contact information

Matt Swing
Address
Environmental Protection Agency
U.S. EPA
Mail Drop: C639-02
109 T.W. Alexander Drive, P.O. Box 12055
RTP, North Carolina 27711
United States
Learn more about this agency

Next steps

It is your responsibility to check your USAJOBS account for application status information. You can track the progress of your application via your USAJOBS account by clicking the Track This Application link. Your USAJOBS application status will appear in your profile if your application was received successfully; if your submission was not received, the application status will show as unavailable. After the announcement closes, the Human Resources Office will conduct a review of your application package. If your application is complete and you meet basic qualification requirements, it will be forwarded to the Selecting Official. Interviews are arranged through the Selecting Official. If you are selected, you will be contacted personally by the Human Resources Office posting this announcement. Your application status will change in USAJOBS when updates are available for each step of the process.

NOTE: We may verify all information you provide in your resume and questionnaire responses through reference and/or background check, and/or verification of your education. Any exaggeration of your experience, false statements, or attempt to conceal information may disqualify you for employment consideration.


Note: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.