Biologist (Postdoctoral Research Fellow), IS-0430-11

OPEN DATE: June 24, 2026 CLOSING DATE: August 24, 2026 POSITION TYPE: Trust Fund APPOINTMENT TYPE: Temporary, not to exceed two years, with the possibility of extension contingent of availability of funds. SCHEDULE: Full Time DUTY LOCATION: Barro Colorado Island, Panama.

Non-Sensitive/ Low Risk Position

Open to all qualified applicants

What are Trust Fund Positions? Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian. They are paid for from a variety of sources, including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from our business activities, donations, grants and contracts. Trust employees are not part of the civil service, nor does trust fund employment lead to Federal status. The salary ranges for trust positions are generally the same as for federal positions and in many cases trust and federal employees work side by side. Trust employees have their own benefit program, which may include Health, Dental & Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Transit/Commuter Benefits, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Annual and Sick Leave, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Plan, Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants, Credit Union, Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (Child Care), Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care).

Conditions of Employment

• Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation for position designated.
• Complete a Probationary Period.
• Must maintain a bank account for direct deposit/electronic transfer in the United States if they are U.S. citizens, or in Panama if they are third-country nationals assigned to the duty station.
• Applications are invited from qualified candidates regardless of nationality.
• Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 60 days of the closing date of this announcement.
• Official transcripts confirming completion of the PhD must be submitted prior to issuance of a final offer.