(a) Authorization

The Secretary is authorized to establish in the Department the position of Under Secretary of Agriculture for Research, Education, and Economics.

(b) Confirmation required

If the Secretary establishes the position of Under Secretary of Agriculture for Research, Education, and Economics authorized under subsection (a) of this section, the Under Secretary shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.

(c) Functions of Under Secretary

(1) Principal functions

Upon establishment, the Secretary shall delegate to the Under Secretary of Agriculture for Research, Education, and Economics those functions and duties under the jurisdiction of the Department that are related to research, education, and economics.

(2) Additional functions

The Under Secretary of Agriculture for Research, Education, and Economics shall perform such other functions and duties as may be required by law or prescribed by the Secretary.

(d) Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service

(1) Establishment

There is established in the Department a Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service.

(2) Functions

The Secretary shall delegate to the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service functions related to cooperative State research programs and cooperative extension and education programs that are under the jurisdiction of the Department.

(3) Officer-in-charge

If the Secretary establishes the position of Under Secretary of Agriculture for Research, Education, and Economics, the officer in charge of the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service shall report directly to the Under Secretary