(a) ST positions are established under 5 U.S.C. 3104 to carry out research and development functions that require the services of specially qualified personnel.

(b) Research and development functions are defined in The Guide to Personnel Data Standards under the data element “Functional Classification.” The guide is available for inspection at the Office of Personnel Management library, 1900 E Street, NW., Washington DC 20415.

(c) An ST position must be engaged in research and development in the physical, biological, medical, or engineering sciences, or a closely related field.

(d) ST positions are in the competitive service.