EACE Orthotics & Prosthetics Research Fellow

Organization
U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)
Reference Code
EACE-2021-0006
How to Apply

Click on Apply at the bottom of the opportunity to start your application.

Description


The Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence (EACE) is offering an opportunity for applicants with a PhD, DPT or MSPO/CPO at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC), in Bethesda, Maryland.

What will I be doing?

Through collaborative efforts with industry, academia, Veteran Affairs/DoD facilities, and private clinics, our multidisciplinary, cross-functional research and clinical team has taken a comprehensive approach to identify, investigate, and meet clinically relevant needs and gaps in the Orthotics & Prosthetics (O&P) field. This expands from device/technology advancements, clinical procedural/technique improvements, enhancements in rehabilitation and training, to optimize long-term outcomes and reduce secondary (musculoskeletal) issues following extremity trauma and/or limb loss. Here, we seek a highly motivated individual to focus on uncovering a deeper understanding of the clinical needs to advance the field of O&P to promote direct patient benefit.

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.

As an EACE O&P Research Fellow, you will have an opportunity to:

  • Learn of innovative technological, procedural, and rehabilitative advancements in O&P
  • Gain extensive experience and knowledge with/of the latest and most advanced technology in O&P
  • Apply clinical experience/knowledge to support and initiate research activities
  • Implement the use of state-of-the-art O&P devices and advancements to support and enhance research endeavors
  • Identify and investigate clinically relevant questions in O&P as it relates to device enhancement, prescription, casting, fit/alignment, training, rehabilitation/physical therapy, gait assessment, etc. following extremity trauma and/or limb loss
  • Learn new data capture and processing techniques
  • Reduce and analyze collected data
  • Participate in the dissemination of findings and idea development

Where will I be located?

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC), in Bethesda, Maryland.

What is the appointment length?

EACE is prepared to begin this appointment in early October pending the review of applications and selection of a qualified candidate. This appointment is an eleven 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 benefits?

You will receive a stipend to be determined by EACE. Stipends are typically based on a participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location.

Other benefits may include the following:

  • Health Insurance Supplement (Participants are eligible to purchase health insurance through ORISE)
  • Relocation Allowance
  • Training and Travel Allowance

About EACE

The Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence (EACE) is the leading advocate for research and treatment of Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) patients with extremity trauma and amputation. The EACE leads efforts to enhance collaboration between the DoD and the VA extremity trauma and amputation care providers and conduct scientific research to minimize the effects of traumatic injuries and improve clinical outcomes https://www.health.mil/About-MHS/OASDHA/HSPO/EACE.  

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.

Qualifications

Education/Training: 
Applicant should be working on, or have completed a PhD, DPT, or MSPO/CPO within the last 60 months from an accredited institution specializing in orthotics and prosthetics, or a related field. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • A highly motivated individual with experience in the fields of biomedical engineering, orthotics and prosthetics, and/or physical therapy.
  • Specific research background/demonstrated interest in the areas of extremity trauma, limb loss, and orthotics & prosthetics are highly desired.
  • A record of scientific publication/conference presentations and excellent technical writing skills are a plus. 
  • A highly preferred candidate will have skills/knowledge in device design/engineering, prototype construction, fabrication/repair, static and dynamic alignment/fitting, gait analyses, and experience/interest in complex multi-disciplinary clinical studies in O&P to ultimately improve the function and quality of life of individuals following traumatic extremity injuries/limb loss.

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 - For this opportunity, an unofficial transcript or copy of the student academic records printed by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institution systems may be submitted.  Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.

If you have questions, send an email to STEM-WORKFORCE@orise.orau.gov.

Eligibility Requirements
  • Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
  • Degree: Currently pursuing a Master's Degree or Doctoral Degree to be received by 12/30/2021 12:00:00 AM.
  • Discipline(s):
    • Chemistry and Materials Sciences (12 )
    • Communications and Graphics Design (2 )
    • Computer, Information, and Data Sciences (16 )
    • Earth and Geosciences (21 )
    • Engineering (27 )
    • Environmental and Marine Sciences (14 )
    • Life Health and Medical Sciences (45 )
    • Mathematics and Statistics (10 )
    • Other Non-Science & Engineering (2 )
    • Physics (16 )
    • Science & Engineering-related (1 )
    • Social and Behavioral Sciences (27 )