Science Education Research - Dual Science Education and Research Program Mentorship

Organization
U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)
Reference Code
MRMC-WRAIR-2019-0020
How to Apply

Components of the online application are as follows:

Submitted documents must have all social security numbers, student identification numbers, and/or dates of birth removed (blanked out, blackened out, made illegible, etc.) prior to uploading into the application system.

If you have questions, send an email to ARMY-MRMC@ORISE.ORAU.gov. Please list the reference code of this opportunity in the subject line of the email.

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

Description

The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research carries out research to develop infectious disease countermeasures and to benefit brain health through studies to enhance our understanding of sleep, traumatic brain injury prevention/treatment and psychological resilience.  See www.wrair.army.mil for more information.

The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) is offering opportunities to senior undergraduate students and post-undergraduate degree holders interested in science education and biomedical research. WRAIR is piloting a two-phase training program in science education and laboratory research. Incoming participants will take part in a preparatory training that covers basic laboratory techniques, laboratory safety, and science education strategies, to facilitate their transitions into the two phases of the program. During the first phase of the program, participants will develop critical thinking and laboratory research skills through working in a WRAIR research laboratory. Further professional development will be provided through weekly training sessions and training in science education through participating in WRAIR educational and outreach events. During the second phase of the program, participants will receive training in laboratory instruction and science communication. Under the guidance of a WRAIR mentor, the participant will have the opportunity to serve as a near-peer mentor (NPM) to middle school and high school students in the summer Gains in the Education of Math and Science (GEMS) Program. As a NPM, participants will host weekly, hands-on laboratory investigations and create a novel teaching lesson based on their WRAIR research experience. Through both phases of the program, the participant will receive a comprehensive research and training experience.

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.

Participant Benefits

Participants will receive a stipend to be determined by WRAIR. Stipends are typically based on the 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

Nature of Appointment

The participant will not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DOD, or any other office or agency.  Instead, the participant will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.

Qualifications

Advanced undergraduate level students with light course loads or post-baccalaureates who received their degree in the past five years in a science, engineering or other highly quantitative field. Applicants must have superior academic performance, strong analytical, research and communication (oral and written) skills and demonstrated capacity for creative thinking, a strong technical background and expertise in a STEM-related field, and be interested in being part of a multi-disciplinary, fast-paced environment, focused on biomedical research, mentoring, and student development.

Eligibility Requirements
  • Citizenship: LPR or U.S. Citizen
  • Degree: Bachelor's Degree received within the last 60 months or currently pursuing.
  • 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 )
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