Electrical Engineering Postgraduate Research Fellowship
Click on Apply at the bottom of the opportunity to start your application.
The Air Force Institute of Technology is offering a postgraduate research fellowship at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.
What will I be doing?
As an Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) participant, you will join a community of scientists and researchers who are at the forefront of atmospheric and optical measurement technology. The research fellow will engage in a collaborative environment where they will gain practical experience and participate in the research and development of innovative next-generation remote sensing and calibration systems. Participants will engage in hands-on activities involving optics, optical systems, remote sensing, laser physics, system diagnostics, and system integration (including control software development).
Why should I apply?
Under the guidance of a mentor, you will gain hands-on experience to complement your education and support your academic and professional goals. Along the way, you will engage in activities and research in several areas. These include, but are not limited to:
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Participate in the full lifecycle of technology development, including design, development, and validation activities
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Gain hands-on experience in advancing sophisticated prototypes from initial concept to field-deployable reality
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Apply and expand your knowledge in areas such as experimental optics and laser systems to achieve project goals
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Foster analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills within a dynamic research setting
Where will I be located?
Dayton, Ohio
What is the anticipated start date?
Exact start dates will be determined at the time of selection and in coordination with the selected candidate. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis and fellowships will be filled as qualified candidates are identified.
What is the appointment length?
This appointment is a twelve-month research appointment, with the possibility to be renewed for additional research periods. Appointments may be extended depending on funding availability, project assignment, program rules, and availability of the participant.
What are the provisions?
You will receive a stipend to be determined by AFIT. Stipends are typically based on a participant’s academic standing, discipline and/or research background, and location of the research facility. Other provisions may include the following:
- Health Insurance Supplement (Participants are eligible to purchase health insurance through ORISE)
- Relocation Allowance
- Training and Travel Allowance
About AFIT
The Air Force Institute of Technology, or AFIT, located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the Air Force’s graduate school of engineering and management as well as its institution for technical professional continuing education. A component of Air University and Air Education and Training Command, AFIT is committed to providing defense-focused graduate and professional continuing education and research to sustain the technological supremacy of America’s air, space and cyber forces.
About ORISE
This program, administered by Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and DoD. Participants do not enter an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DoD or any other office or agency. Instead, you will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE. For more information, visit the ORISE Research Participation Program at the U.S. Department of Defense.
The qualified candidate will have earned or be nearing completion of a Master's or Doctoral degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or Optics. Degree holders should have received their degree within 1 year of the appointment start date.
Highly competitive applicants will have education and/or experience in one or more of the following:
- Demonstrated knowledge of experimental optics and laser systems
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
Application Requirements
A complete application consists of:
- Zintellect Profile
- Educational and Employment History
- Essay Questions (goals, experiences, and skills relevant to the opportunity)
- Resume (PDF)
- Transcripts/Academic Records - Please upload a copy of a transcript for your current or most recent degree program that meets the disciplinary qualifications of the opportunity. Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
- One Recommendation. We encourage you to contact your recommender(s) as soon as you start your application to ensure they are able to complete the recommendation form and to let them know to expect a message from Zintellect. Recommenders will be asked to rate your scientific capabilities, personal characteristics, and describe how they know you. You can always log back in to your Zintellect account and check the status of your application.
If you have questions, send an email to AIRFORCE@orise.orau.gov Please list the reference code of this opportunity [AFIT-2026-0005] in the subject line of the email. Please understand that ORISE does not review applications or select applicants; selections are made by the sponsoring agency identified on this opportunity. All application materials should be submitted via the “Apply” button at the bottom of this opportunity listing. Please do not send application materials to the email address above.
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