USGS Mendenhall Research Fellowship Program
The mission of the USGS is to provide reliable scientific information to (1) describe and understand the Earth; (2) minimize loss of life and property from natural disasters; (3) manage water, biological, energy, and mineral resources; and (4) enhance and protect our quality of life.
The vision of the USGS is to become a world leader in the natural sciences through scientific excellence and responsiveness to society’s needs. The Mendenhall Research Fellowship Program provides an opportunity for postdoctoral fellows to conduct concentrated research in association with selected members of the USGS professional staff, often as a final element to their formal career preparation. The Program is also intended to provide research experiences that enhance their personal scientific stature and credentials. The Mendenhall Program is envisioned to bring current scientific expertise to assist in the implementation of the USGS Strategic Plan and the science strategy of its programs (refer to http://pubs.usgs.gov/circ/2007/1309/, https://www2.usgs.gov/start_with_science/). Mendenhall Fellows are expected to publish their results in peer-reviewed scientific outlets.
Mendenhall Fellows are appointed to the USGS for two years and receive full salary and benefits at the GS-12 level. The 2015 base salary for GS-12, step 1 is $61,486. This amount might be higher depending on the amount of locality pay or cost-of-living allowance (COLA) for the geographic area of the assignment. The appropriate Human Resources Office contact can provide further information upon request.
How to Apply
In order to be considered for a Mendenhall Fellowship, candidates must:
- The Ph.D. degree requirements must have been met no earlier than 5 years before the application opening date, and must be completed by the time employment starts;
- Meet the qualification requirements described in the Research Opportunity. Applicants must address the USGS scientific needs described in the Research Opportunity description appropriately. The proposal submitted must demonstrate that the applicant is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties for the specific Research Opportunity. If they do not, they may not be considered.
At this time the Federal Government may hire U.S. citizens; a person who owes allegiance to the U.S.; or a person who is lawfully admitted for permanent residence and is seeking U.S. citizenship. Please contact the appropriate Personnel Office listed on the announcement for questions about eligibility and further assistance.
Foreign Education. Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements if acceptable documentation that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States is provided. It is the applicant's responsibility to provide such evidence. Click here for additional information on acceptable documentation: https://www2.usgs.gov/ohr/oars/quals/foreign.html.