Invertebrate Bioeffects Research Internship
Click on Apply at the bottom of the opportunity to start your application.
The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is seeking a part-time bachelor’s level research intern at the Air Force Research Laboratory location at JBSA Fort Sam Houston, in San Antonio, Texas.
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 to investigate the utility of invertebrate (Drosophlia melanogaster, Caenorhabditis elegans) models as predictors of potential biochemical changes induced by environmental stressors. The lab uses a variety of behavioral tests for each model system to assess potential bioeffects.
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 and assist with activities and research in several areas. These include, but are not limited to:
- Training in the use of in vivo models - such as the common fruit fly and nematodes - in addition to cell culture
- Participation in day-to-day research activities, data analysis, figure preparation, and helping to prepare reports
- Support of technical writing projects and preparing manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication
This experience will help prepare the candidate for a future career at the graduate level (MS and PhD) and will give them a solid base for establishing a publication record.
Where will I be located?
San Antonio, Texas
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 an eight-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 appointment provisions?
You will receive a stipend to be determined by AFRL. Stipends are typically based on a participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location. 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 AFRL
The 711th Human Performance Wing (711 HPW), headquartered at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, is the first human-centric warfare wing to consolidate human performance research, education, and consultation under a single organization. Established under the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), the 711 HPW is comprised of the Airman Systems Directorate (RH) and the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine (USAFSAM). For more information about the Air Force Research Laboratory, 711 Human Performance Wing, Airman Systems Directorate, Airman Biosciences Division, please visit https://afresearchlab.com/.
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 into 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 currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in biology or biomedical engineering. Degree is required to be obtained by 5/17/2027. Postgraduate candidates must have earned their degree within 5 years of the appointment start date.
Highly competitive applicants will have education and/or experience in one or more of the following:
- Cell and tissue culture techniques
- Performing literature searches, writing reports, and analyzing data
- Building CAD SOLIDWORKS® models for biomechanical engineering applications
- Modeling engineering drawings for finalized mechanical concepts
- Graphics software, such as Sketchup is preferred
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 AFRL-711HPW-2024-0015 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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