[Research Chemist (Biochemistry) series 1320; GS 11/12]{.underline}

Factor I -- Research Assignment

A. Assigned Responsibility

This Chemist (Biochemistry) is assigned to the Foodborne Contaminants
Research Unit, Western Regional Research Center, USDA-ARS, Albany,
California. Performs individual and team research addressing the
detection of biothreat toxins in foods. Projects include both
fundamental and applied research topics. These projects are organized
under CRIS 5325-320-043-00D, "Development of Detection Technologies for
Toxins and their Validation in Food Matrices," and administered under
National Program 108 -- Food Safety. Collaborates with other scientists
at the Location, within ARS, nationally, and internationally, as needed,
to acquire critical expertise and materials.

B. Research Objectives and Methodology

This position requires creativity and latitude in methodology, but is
generally focused on cell-based detection of toxins in complex food
samples. Research includes developing rapid, cost-effective, analytical
methods for detection, identification and differentiation of biothreat
toxins or markers in foods. The emphasis will be on development of
high-content analysis, that is, rapid measurement of multiple parameters
on individual cells. Application of high-content analysis will require
sophisticated approaches to sample preparation, and it will be necessary
to define the minimum sample processing necessary to achieve accurate
results. Research approaches may include detection of changes in
morphological parameters such as nuclear size and shape and use of
multiparameter apoptosis assays. Among the experimental tools applicable
to this study are: liquid- and solid-phase extractions, fluorescence
microscopy (including confocal microscopy), image analysis, and cell
culture in a variety of formats.

C. Expected Results

The goal of this research is the development of sophisticated, yet rapid
and/or portable assay methods to detect the activity of biothreat agents
such as ricin in foods. Preferably, these methods can be combined with
other technologies developed in-house or commercially to produce useful
multi-threat analytical methods. These techniques will have direct
application in monitoring foods and will result in improved food safety
and security for the U.S. food supply. The expected results will
contribute to Goal 3 of the ARS Strategic Plan: Enhance Protection and
Safety of the Nation's Agriculture and Food Supply.

D. Knowledge Required

The employee exercises a broad understanding of biochemistry and cell
biology. Specifically, the assignment requires knowledge of fluorescent
labeling and detection technologies, including fluorescence microscopy.
Knowledge of subcellular morphology and the biochemistry and cell
biology of apoptosis are very desirable. Skills in organization and
teamwork are required to ensure successful completion of this
multidisciplinary research project.

E. Supervisory Responsibilities

Provides technical supervision over one Biological Science Laboratory
Technician, GS-5, -6, or --7. Provides guidance on procedures and
methods to be employed, reviews work in progress.

Factor II. Supervision Received

A. Assigned Authority

This position includes responsibility for planning and conducting
experiments relevant to Unit programs. Changes in experimental design or
protocols, other than minor technical adjustments, require approval by
the Supervisor. Responsible for appropriate recording, interpretation,
and reporting of research.

B. Technical Guidance Received

This individual is an expert laboratory scientist, and will identify and
obtain any necessary additional resources, including personal assistance
and training. The scientist works effectively with minimal technical
supervision. Planning and organizing experiments within the overall
research program of the laboratory and the Unit are coordinated through
the Supervisor.

C. Review of Results

This employee is responsible for executing, analyzing, interpreting, and
reporting personal research. Work will be technically accurate, and
interpretation will be scientifically sound. Reports will be reviewed by
the Supervisor, prior to standard Agency review, and subsequent
evaluation and validation by the scientific community.

D. General Supervision

This employee works under the general supervision of a Category 1
scientist. Guidance and feedback are provided via e-mail, telephone, and
personal meetings. Coordination includes sharing data and experimental
observations, as well as interpretation and plans for future
experiments. Changes in experimental design or protocols, other than
minor technical adjustments, require approval by the Supervisor.
Coordination with personnel and other necessary resources outside the
Unit is managed through the Supervisor.

Factor III. Guidelines and Originality

A. Available Literature

Much literature is available on the detection of biothreat toxins and on
the biochemistry and cell biology related to high content analysis, but
gaps in knowledge and theory persist. The use of non-mammalian cells for
such analysis, for example, is poorly documented. Numbers of published
papers document toxin assays, but few have been performed on matrices as
complex as raw milk or ground beef, and essential knowledge for
appropriate sample preparation is lacking. Most publications lack
validation data for sample preparation methods and assays in complex
foods as well as effect of matrix on stability of toxin.

B. Originality Required

Creativity is required to identify appropriate published methods and
adapt them for new research applications. Originality is necessary for
discovery and characterization of new and useful detection technologies
and study of matrix effects. Novel hypotheses must be tested because
incremental advances in these areas have not provided adequate detection
technology. Sample preparation strategies for complex food samples are
required to be effective in removing nonspecific cytotoxic compounds,
for example, but must be rapid and, in some cases, portable.