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

ANNOUNCEMENT NO: RA-04-075L

POSITION: Research Chemist

LOCATION: Peoria, IL

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES: The incumbent is a Research Chemist in the Plant Polymer Research Unit at the National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research, Peoria, Illinois. The position will entail the synthesis and characterization of esters of starch with different organic acids as well as neat polyaspartic acid. The incumbent will study the effect of reaction parameters using batch and continuous processing methods. Analytical methodologies such as NMR, FTIR and GPC will be used to characterize extent of reaction and molecular architecture. Physical properties such as viscosity, water absorbency, and metal ion binding will be characterized for selected samples in collaboration with the industrial (CRADA) partner. The goal of the research is to develop new safe, environmentally friendly industrial/medical polymer products and thus new markets for corn starches.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: Recent Ph.D. in chemistry, polymer science, biochemistry or related field of study. Experience in chemical synthesis and polymer characterization is desired.

FOR INFORMATION ON SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS, SALARY, BENEFITS, OR APPLICATION FORMS, CONTACT:

Rosita Spears
Human Resources Specialist
USDA/ARS/Human Resources Division
5601 Sunnyside Avenue
Beltsville, MD 20705-5106
Phone: 301-504-1556
Fax: 301-504-1578

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

Dr. Randal Shogren
Plant Polymer Research Unit
USDA/ARS/NCAUR
1815 N. University St.
Peoria, IL 61604
Phone: 309-681-6354
Fax: 309-681-6691
E-mail: shogrerl@mail.ncaur.usda.gov