The National Science Foundation is seeking a qualified candidate for an Investigative Scientist position for the Office of Investigations (OI) within the Office of the Inspector General (OIG), Alexandria, VA.
The National Science Foundation is seeking a qualified candidate for an Investigative Scientist position for the Office of Investigations (OI) within the Office of the Inspector General (OIG), Alexandria, VA.
Applications will be accepted from all US citizens who meet citizenship and eligibility requirements. Please see the "Other Information" section for further information.
This announcement will close on 10/01/2020 or on the date 100 applications are received, whichever occurs first.
The Office of Inspector General (OIG) is responsible for conducting audits, investigations, and inspections of NSF programs and operations. OIG is also responsible for providing leadership and coordination and for recommending policies to: (1) promote economy, efficiency, and effectiveness in administering NSF programs and operations; (2) prevent and detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in NSF programs and operations; and (3) prevent, detect, and handle cases involving research misconduct . To keep the Congress and the public informed, OIG is required to publish a Semiannual Report to the Congress and the National Science Board.
The incumbent in this position serves as an Investigative Scientist in the Office of Investigations. The Office of Investigations conducts and supervises all investigations of allegations related to NSF programs and operations. It handles all civil and criminal allegations as well as all allegations of research misconduct.
The incumbent works under the supervision of the Director, Research Integrity and Administrative Investigations (DRIAI) who makes assignments by setting specific objectives. The incumbent (1) organizes and carries out assignments in a timely manner, and (2) submits reports, analyses, findings, and recommendations to the DRIAI who reviews the work and provides technical guidance.
The incumbent relies heavily on his or her knowledge of the U.S. research and educational system and exercises judgment and discretion in carrying out assignments. Many projects are self-generated and accomplished with moderate guidance or direction. The supervisor reviews the incumbent's work for technical quality, the soundness of the approach, and fulfillment of the assignment's objectives.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The incumbent is assigned to the DRIAI and accomplishes his or her work in a timely manner. The incumbent's principal responsibility is conducting administrative investigations including investigations into allegations of research misconduct as defined at 45 CFR 689 and retaliation against whistleblowers as defined at 41 USC 4712. This includes recommending referrals of necessary inquiries and/or investigations as well as conducting any required inquiries and/or investigations.
As assigned, the incumbent plans, completes, and submits written reports on special studies, assignments, and projects that frequently cut across disciplinary and organizational lines. The products of these assignments must stand up to thorough and vigorous scrutiny by the U.S. scientific and academic community as well as the IG community. With supervisory guidance, the incumbent must interpret his or her and others’ analyses and produce specific and implementable recommendations to enable the NSF or the appropriate adjudicator to implement efficiently and effectively its mission for science and engineering and for OIG to accomplish its mission.
The incumbent contributes written materials to the IG's Semiannual Report to the Congress. This requires some knowledge of NSF policies, activities, and procedures as adapted to the entire range of NSF programs. Basic knowledge of other federal agency policies, procedures, and practices is also required as is an understanding of scientific method, as developed through a completed doctoral research experience in a science or engineering discipline. The latter is particularly important for meaningful interactions internally with NSF program officers and externally with NSF grantees.
Also, as assigned, the incumbent assists the DRIAI by handling allegations of research misconduct as well as charges of improper actions by NSF staff and by participating in outreach activities. These activities require familiarity with the science and engineering research and education community so as to convene knowledgeable panelists or consult experts in the course of investigating allegations of research misconduct.
In carrying out OIG functions, the incumbent coordinates his or her activities as appropriate with NSF program officers, with those outside NSF, as well as outside the federal government. The incumbent must be able to work easily and effectively with scientists, engineers, and attorneys, and be inclusive, flexible, and innovative.
In order to maintain adequate professional competence, the incumbent engages in relevant training activities and attends and participates in professional scientific or engineering meetings as appropriate.
Selective Service registration required for male applicants, unless exempt.
It is NSF policy that NSF personnel employed at or IPAs detailed to NSF are not permitted to participate in foreign government talent recruitment programs. Failure to comply with this NSF policy could result in disciplinary action up to and including removal from Federal Service or termination of an IPA assignment and referral to the Office of Inspector General. Foreign Talent Definitions
You will need to successfully complete a background security investigation before you can be appointed into this position.
All online applicants must provide a valid email address. If your email address is inaccurate or your mailbox is full or blocked, you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position.
This position is excluded from the bargaining unit.
Please preview "Evaluations" section and "Qualifications" for additional requirements and Quality Ranking Factors.
Qualifications
Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Engineering, Life Science, Mathematics, Physical Science and/or another relevant discipline.
This position is outside the competitive civil service.
You must meet eligibility and qualification requirements by the closing date of the announcement.
Additional information
Relocation expenses will NOT be paid.
This announcement is open to (All US Citizens OR current NSF employees) who meet citizenship and eligibility requirements.
Federal Appropriations Law requires that Non-Citizens meet certain eligibility criteria to be considered. Therefore, Non-Citizens must certify eligibility by signing and attaching this Citizenship Affidavit to their application. Non-citizens who do not provide the affidavit at the time of application will not be considered.
This announcement may be used to fill like positions in other organizations within the National Science Foundation.
NSF has determined that all of its positions are eligible for telework. Work suitable for telework depends on job duties; therefore, employees must receive approval from their supervisor for telework and have a telework agreement in place. Entering into a telework agreement is voluntary.
The Selected Candidate(s) may be subject to a background investigation.
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.
A GREAT LOCATION! The National Science Foundation Headquarters is conveniently located across the street from the Eisenhower Avenue Metro Station, right in Alexandria, VA, a few miles from downtown Washington, DC. There are shops and restaurants within walking distance, as well as historic Old Town Alexandria a short trip away. Employees receive the Federal benefits package and NSF offers:
Pre-tax parking Public transportation subsidy Child care subsidy Flexible working hours Telecommuting Physical Fitness Facility on site Health Services Unit on site Employee Assistance Program
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.
You will be evaluated on the extent and quality of your experience, expertise, education, and research activities relevant to the duties of the position. In some cases, additional assessment processes may also be used.
We strongly encourage you to specifically address the Quality Ranking Factors below. This will ensure that you receive full consideration in the evaluation process.
Quality Ranking Factors
Knowledge of the standards and processes of Federal grants in conducting scientific, engineering, and/or education research.
Ability to prepare written reports and studies that include conclusions and recommendations for appropriate disposition based on the results of your research, investigation or review.
Ability to acquire knowledge of laws, regulations, policies, and procedures sufficient to plan and investigate allegations involving matters of waste, fraud, abuse, or mismanagement of government resources.
Skill in identifying information sources and applying research techniques and search and retrieval systems to collect, examine, and analyze facts.
Skill in oral communication techniques sufficient to present the OIG’s position and to gain the cooperation of scientists, engineers, and administrators within the agency and the wider research community.
Knowledge of current ethical issues in science, engineering and education in order to identify problems and recommend solutions.
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.
A GREAT LOCATION! The National Science Foundation Headquarters is conveniently located across the street from the Eisenhower Avenue Metro Station, right in Alexandria, VA, a few miles from downtown Washington, DC. There are shops and restaurants within walking distance, as well as historic Old Town Alexandria a short trip away. Employees receive the Federal benefits package and NSF offers:
Pre-tax parking Public transportation subsidy Child care subsidy Flexible working hours Telecommuting Physical Fitness Facility on site Health Services Unit on site Employee Assistance Program
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.
All applicants must submit a resume in any format, and may also submit a cover letter.
In order to be considered for federal appointments, Non-Citizens must affirm that they meet the Appropriations Law eligibility criteria by signing and attaching this Citizenship Affidavit to their application. Non citizens who do not provide the affidavit at the time of application will not be considered. Non Citizens who are exempt from the Appropriations Law requirements due to their status as officers or employees of the U.S. government on December 16, 2009 must provide a statement with their application noting their exemption with documentation of proof of status as officers or employees of the U.S. government on that date.
You are strongly encouraged to submit a current performance appraisal and/or letter(s) of recommendation and a supplemental statement that describes how your background relates to the Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs) listed in the Qualifications and Evaluation Requirements section of this announcement. This information will be used in the evaluation process.
We also ask that you complete and submit the Applicant Survey. This will help NSF to ensure that our recruiting efforts are attracting a diverse candidate pool; it will be used for statistical purposes only.
You should upload your letter of recommendation(s) or the individual(s) can email the letter of recommendation(s) to adsearch@nsf.gov; please ask him/her to put your name and the job announcement number in the subject line.
Transcripts are not required; however, please indicate the year that each degree was obtained on your application materials.
All uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
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.
Your application must be submitted online and all document uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date. You must answer all of the job-related questions to ensure full consideration for this position. For more detailed information, please review our NSF eRecruit Applicant Guide.
WARNING! Applications submitted online must have a valid email address. If your email address is inaccurate or your mailbox is full or blocked, you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position. If you are unable to apply electronically, please use the Contact Information below for special instructions on how to submit your application materials. Hearing impaired individuals may call TDD (703) 292-8044 for assistance.
IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE DO NOT INCLUDE YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER OR DATE OF BIRTH ON YOUR APPLICATION DOCUMENTS.
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
2415 Eisenhower Ave
Alexandira, Virginia 22314
United States
Next steps
Shortly after the announcement closes, you will be notified as to whether or not you meet the basic qualification requirements. If you do, you will receive further consideration and evaluation. If the position is in the bargaining unit, and your application is referred to the selecting official, you will be contacted for an interview if interviews are conducted. Interviews for positions not in the bargaining unit may be conducted at the discretion of the selecting official. All qualified applicants will receive final notification of the outcome of the job opportunity announcement.
You may check the status of your application at any time on the USAJOBS website.
We highly recommend that all candidates opt to receive email notifications for job status updates.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
All applicants must submit a resume in any format, and may also submit a cover letter.
In order to be considered for federal appointments, Non-Citizens must affirm that they meet the Appropriations Law eligibility criteria by signing and attaching this Citizenship Affidavit to their application. Non citizens who do not provide the affidavit at the time of application will not be considered. Non Citizens who are exempt from the Appropriations Law requirements due to their status as officers or employees of the U.S. government on December 16, 2009 must provide a statement with their application noting their exemption with documentation of proof of status as officers or employees of the U.S. government on that date.
You are strongly encouraged to submit a current performance appraisal and/or letter(s) of recommendation and a supplemental statement that describes how your background relates to the Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs) listed in the Qualifications and Evaluation Requirements section of this announcement. This information will be used in the evaluation process.
We also ask that you complete and submit the Applicant Survey. This will help NSF to ensure that our recruiting efforts are attracting a diverse candidate pool; it will be used for statistical purposes only.
You should upload your letter of recommendation(s) or the individual(s) can email the letter of recommendation(s) to adsearch@nsf.gov; please ask him/her to put your name and the job announcement number in the subject line.
Transcripts are not required; however, please indicate the year that each degree was obtained on your application materials.
All uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
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.
Your application must be submitted online and all document uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date. You must answer all of the job-related questions to ensure full consideration for this position. For more detailed information, please review our NSF eRecruit Applicant Guide.
WARNING! Applications submitted online must have a valid email address. If your email address is inaccurate or your mailbox is full or blocked, you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position. If you are unable to apply electronically, please use the Contact Information below for special instructions on how to submit your application materials. Hearing impaired individuals may call TDD (703) 292-8044 for assistance.
IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE DO NOT INCLUDE YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER OR DATE OF BIRTH ON YOUR APPLICATION DOCUMENTS.
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
2415 Eisenhower Ave
Alexandira, Virginia 22314
United States
Next steps
Shortly after the announcement closes, you will be notified as to whether or not you meet the basic qualification requirements. If you do, you will receive further consideration and evaluation. If the position is in the bargaining unit, and your application is referred to the selecting official, you will be contacted for an interview if interviews are conducted. Interviews for positions not in the bargaining unit may be conducted at the discretion of the selecting official. All qualified applicants will receive final notification of the outcome of the job opportunity announcement.
You may check the status of your application at any time on the USAJOBS website.
We highly recommend that all candidates opt to receive email notifications for job status updates.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
