• An application
• Transcript(s) – 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. All transcripts must be in English or include an official English translation. Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
• A current resume/CV, including academic history, employment history, relevant experiences, and publication list
• Two educational or professional recommendations. Click here for detailed information about recommendations.

*Applications may be reviewed on a rolling-basis and this posting could close before the deadline. Click here for information about the selection process.

EPA Office/Lab and Location: A research opportunity is available at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Office of Research and Development (ORD), Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure (CCTE), Chemical Characterization & Exposure Division (CCED) located in Durham, North Carolina.

Research Project: This research project will focus on using new approach methodologies (NAMs) to characterize, quantify, and link molecular events to chemical toxicity. Under the guidance of a mentor, participant activities will include using dose/concentration response modeling of changes in gene expression from short-term animal assays, cell-based assays, and archival studies to establish molecular thresholds of effect resulting in toxicity and provide a basis for greater use of NAMs in chemical safety assessment.

Learning Objectives: Throughout the course of this research project, the participant will expand their understanding of transcriptomics, molecular pathway analyses, and benchmark dose/concentration response modeling. The participant will also become adept at aseptic technique, good cell-culture practices, nuclei acid isolation, qRT-PCR, and working with archival formalin-fixed paraffin embedded tissue samples. The participant will become familiar with good experimental design practices to ensure data quality, results interpretation, and formal presentation while working with an energetic team of scientists with whom they can establish a professional network of potential future colleagues.

Mentor(s): The mentor for this opportunity is Leah Wehmas (wehmas.leah@epa.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s).

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: Winter/Spring 2021.  All start dates are flexible and vary depending on numerous factors. Click here for detailed information about start dates.

Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be eight months and may be renewed up to three to four additional years upon EPA recommendation and subject to availability of funding.

Level of Participation: The appointment is full-time.

Participant Stipend: The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. Click here for detailed information about full-time stipends.

EPA Security Clearance: Completion of a successful background investigation by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is required for an applicant to be on-boarded at EPA.

ORISE Information: This program, administered by 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 EPA. Participants do not become employees of EPA, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.

Questions: Please see the FAQ section of our website. After reading, if you have additional questions about the application process please email EPArpp@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a bachelor's degree in one of the relevant fields. Degree must have been received within five years of the appointment start date.

• Experience with:
  • Laboratory techniques
  • Cell culture
  • Molecular biology
  • Rodent husbandry
  • Coding in R, Python, or similar language

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: Bachelor's Degree received within the last 60 months or currently pursuing.
• Discipline(s):
  • Computer, Information, and Data Sciences (16 )
  • Engineering (1 )
  • Environmental and Marine Sciences (3 )
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (45 )
• Veteran Status: Veterans Preference, degree received within the last 120 month(s).