Water Quality Policy and Regulations Research and Data Analysis

Organization
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Reference Code
EPA-OW-IO-2020-0002
How to Apply

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
  • A writing sample

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

If you have questions, send an email to EPArpp@orau.org. Please include the reference code for this opportunity in your email.

Application Deadline
2/28/2020 3:00:00 PM Eastern Time Zone
Description

*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis.

A research opportunity in water policy and regulation currently is available in Washington, D.C. in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office of Water (OW), in the Immediate Office (IO) of the Assistant Administrator for Water. OW guides implementation of the national water program under statutory authorities such as the Clean Water Act (CWA), Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) and Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA). (https://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/about-office-water). 

The goal of this office is to research, evaluate, and organize data and information on clean water and drinking water issues, programs and regulations. This office analyzes policy and guidance data related to nutrients; drinking water contaminants such as lead and copper; green infrastructure; and other water research projects. 

With guidance from the mentor, the research participant will:

  • Learn how national environmental programs are managed, how environmental policies are researched, evaluated and implemented, and how federal programs interact with state, local and tribal partners. 
  • Learn how to review of regulations, guidance, policies and other key water actions and how to organize these actions for evaluation and publication. 
  • Learn how to develop an online reference and resource reference center for information OW can use in crafting regulations and other policy actions. 
  • Learn how water policy data, information and regulatory options are organized and communicated for EPA decision makers and other partners.
  • Collaborate with EPA teams on high priority or emerging interest topics including researching the environmental impacts of nutrients on surface waters, and the methods to measure and reduce risks to drinking water consumers from lead and copper contamination.

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: April 2020

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. The initial appointment is for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of EPA and is contingent on the availability of funds. The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. The annual stipend will be as follows depending on education level: $48,670 (Bachelor's), $59,534 (Master's). Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. The appointment is full-time at EPA in the Washington, DC area. Participants do not become employees of EPA, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits.

Qualifications

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

Strong writing skills, with the ability to conduct research and communicate results to technical and non-technical audiences are strongly desired.

Eligibility Requirements
  • Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
  • Degree: Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree received within the last 60 months or currently pursuing.
  • Discipline(s):
    • Chemistry and Materials Sciences (12 )
    • Communications and Graphics Design (6 )
    • Earth and Geosciences (21 )
    • Environmental and Marine Sciences (14 )
    • Life Health and Medical Sciences (45 )
    • Other Non-Science & Engineering (5 )
    • Social and Behavioral Sciences (28 )
  • Veteran Status: Veterans Preference, degree received within the last 120 month(s).
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