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The U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID) is offering a post-baccalaureate internship within the Diagnostic Systems Division (DSD). The DSD develops, characterizes, and fields assays for the detection of various infectious diseases including high consequence viral and bacterial pathogens as well as toxins. Besides direct pathogen detection, the DSD investigates the use of host biomarkers of infection (ex. RNA and protein expression changes) to detect an infection or exposure when direct pathogen detection is not possible or feasible. We evaluate new technology for biothreat detection in addition to exploring ways to improve current fielded methods. We collaborate within the institute and with external partners to push our assays toward medical countermeasure development efforts or far forward locations for biosurveillance to accomplish the mission. We are seeking a research fellow who will participate in sample testing from OCONUS and internal projects for the detection of high-consequence pathogens, as well as learning about and supporting development of new assays for OCONUS use.

What will I be doing?

As an ORISE participant, you will join a community of scientists and researchers within the DSD developing new and improved detection and diagnostic assays for use in targeted biosurveillance programs. You will participate in screening samples across the pathogenic spectrum from vectors to animal reservoirs to human samples for evidence of exposure to febrile and vector borne diseases. You will also have the opportunity to travel to OCONUS sites to participate in setting up labs and training OCONUS personnel on the techniques developed in DSD for targeted biosurveillance.

Why should I apply?

Frederick, Maryland

What is the anticipated start date?

The USAMRIID is ready to make appointments immediately. 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 internships or fellowships will be filled as qualified candidates are identified.

What is the appointment length? 

This appointment is a twelve-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 USAMRIID. 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

Security Clearance 

While participants will not enter into an employment relationship with DoD or any other agency, this opportunity will require a suitability investigation/background investigation. Any offer made is considered tentative pending favorable outcome of the investigation.

About USAMRIID

USAMRIID's reputation has been built over the years by numerous scientists and technical staff working to protect both military personnel and civilians from the threat of infectious diseases. The Institute participates in support of emerging disease investigations, working alongside colleagues from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization. As a reference laboratory for the Department of Defense, USAMRIID sets the standard for identification of biological agents. The Institute's workforce represents some of the top infectious disease and biological defense experts in the Nation—indeed, in the world.  For more information about the USAMRIID, please visit U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID)

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 received a Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, and/or other related Life, Health, or Medical Science discipline.  Degree must have been received within five years of the appointment start date.  

Highly competitive applicants will have education and/or experience in one or more of the following:

•         Basic concepts of immunodiagnostic and molecular diagnostic assay development
•         Basic molecular biology knowledge of conducting research in the area of detection/diagnostics and infectious diseases 
•         Overseas (OCONUS) travel experience setting up labs and training personnel for molecular diagnostic techniques
•         Hands on experience in multiplexed diagnostic technologies such as Luminex and Biomeme

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.
• Two Recommendations. Your application will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed until two recommendations are submitted. We encourage you to contact your recommenders 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 ARMY-MRMC@orise.orau.gov. Please list the reference code of this opportunity [MRDC-MRIID-2025-0002] 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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• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: Bachelor's Degree received within the last 60 month(s).
• Discipline(s):
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (6 )