EPA Fellowship in Human Health Assessment - PBPK Modeling

Warning

This opportunity is closed.

Organization

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Reference Code

EPA-ORD-CPHEA-CPAD-2024-01

How to Apply

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A complete application consists of:

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.

All documents must be in English or include an official English translation.

Application Deadline

1/3/2025 3:00:00 PM Eastern Time Zone

Description

*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 Public Health and Environmental Assessment (CPHEA), Chemical and Pollutant Assessment Division (CPAD) in Washington, D.C., or Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

Research Project: A postdoctoral research opportunity is currently available with the overall objective of developing a generalizable physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model code or “template” that can be used to implement a number of existing models by setting parameters appropriately. Since the single set of code could be used for multiple models, it would reduce the effort required to perform quality assurance (QA) reviews of each model. Depending on the time available, interest, and skills of the research participant, the research project may include programming additional tools to further streamline model evaluation and QA, such as the ability to easily perform Monte Carlo simulations or simulations of periodic dosing and exposure scenarios.

PBPK models have now been applied in a number of EPA assessments, but the QA effort (i.e., checking that the model code is correct, model parameter values match those listed in a publication or report, and that all pharmacokinetic (PK) data have been accurately transcribed from other sources) is substantial. A PBPK model template and automation of aspects of model QA will facilitate the process of model evaluation and deployment, allowing the U.S. EPA to more efficiently achieve its objective of using the best available science. However, the hypothesis that a single model code can accurately reproduce many existing models must first be tested with specific examples that cover a range of model structures. Testing the template using specific models may lead to further refinement of the template.

Learning Objectives: Under the guidance of a mentor, the research participant will collaborate with scientists across disciplines to participate in original scientific research and will present research results in peer reviewed journal articles, EPA reports, and/or at scientific conferences. The research participant will have the opportunity to apply specific PK/PBPK models to human health risk assessments for chemical toxicants. The research participant will have latitude to exercise independent initiative and judgment in the research commensurate with the level of training.

This research project will provide the participant with the opportunity to receive training in the development of emergent approaches in PK and PBPK modeling such as integration of NAMs into model development and application, and possibly in methods for characterizing uncertainty in model predictions and variability among exposed populations. The research participant will gain an understanding of how PK and PBPK models and scientific evidence are used to inform decisions in the development of EPA chemical assessments and will have the opportunity to learn and conduct quantitative analyses that contribute to EPA scientific chemical health assessments and potentially lead to peer-reviewed publications. The highly influential science assessments produced by CPAD scientists form key scientific support for EPA regulatory decisions and typically have significant implications for national and international environmental policy development and implementation.

The research participant may also participate in research projects with scientists from other EPA Labs, Centers, or Offices in the evaluation of evidence related to the health effects of environmental agents. Such collaborations provide opportunities to learn and develop new scientific approaches that advance research in chemical risk assessment.

Mentor(s): The mentor for this project is Viktor Morozov (morozov.viktor@epa.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research, please contact the mentor.

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: Fall 2024. 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 for one year and may be renewed 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.

ORISE offers all ORISE EPA graduate students and Postdocs a free 5 year membership to the National Postdoctoral Association (NPA).

The successful applicant(s) will be required to comply with Environmental, Safety and Health (ES&H) requirements of the hosting facility, including but not limited to, COVID-19 requirements (e.g. facial covering, physical distancing, testing, vaccination).

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

Qualifications

The qualified candidate should have received a doctoral degree in one of the relevant fields within five years of the appointment start date. Applicants currently completing their degree with completion before starting the opportunity will also be considered.

Preferred skills/experience:

Applied Mathematics, Biostatistics, Chemical or Biochemical Engineering, Pharmacokinetics, Statistics, Pharmacology and In vitro DMPK, or Toxicology with a focus on quantitative (computational) methods.
Experience in PBPK modeling or other mechanism-based modeling is highly desired.
Quantitative analysis of uncertainty and variability.

Eligibility Requirements

Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
Degree: Doctoral Degree received within the last 60 month(s).
Discipline(s):
- Chemistry and Materials Sciences (1 )
- Computer, Information, and Data Sciences (17 )
- Engineering (2 )
- Life Health and Medical Sciences (6 )
- Mathematics and Statistics (3 )

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