SERDP-ESTCP Strategic Environmental Research Fellowship
Click on Apply at the bottom of the opportunity to start your application
The Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP) and the Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) is offering a postdoctoral fellowship.
Why should I apply and what will I be doing?
As an ORISE participant, you will join an organization within the Department of Defense (DoD) that is leading the effort to conduct research and demonstrations that develop innovative, scalable technologies that enhance mission readiness. SERDP and ESTCP currently fund over 400 active projects addressing a variety of challenges including topics under natural hazards, site restoration, energy, water, and weapons systems and platforms.
Under the guidance of a mentor, you will engage in assessment and evaluation of the active projects, making connections and summarizing results from various projects, as well as developing strategic paths forward for future research. You will contribute to consolidating research efforts and developing communicative tools for decision-makers within the DoD. You will gain additional experience in science communication, and policy development. Finally, there may be several opportunities to contribute to academic publications to support your academic and professional goals.
Where will I be located?
The SERDP and ESTCP office is located in Alexandria VA, but relocation will not be necessary. Occasional travel to Alexandria VA will be necessary as well as travel to key scientific meetings.
What is the anticipated start date?
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 the fellowship will be filled as a qualified candidate is identified.
What is the appointment length?
Appointments are initially for one year with the option to extend the appointment for up to four additional years, contingent upon project needs and funding availability.
What are the provisions?
You will receive a stipend to be determined by SERDP and ESTCP; however, the anticipated stipend range is $110,000-$120,000 for this 12-month appointment. 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)
- Training and Travel Allowance
About SERDP and ESTCP:
SERDP and ESTCP develop and demonstrate innovative, scalable technologies that enhance military readiness, improve warfighter capabilities, and strengthen defense infrastructure. The programs prioritize common sense, cost-effective solutions that support operational effectiveness at military installations.
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 a Ph.D. in a relevant field. Degree must have been received within 5 years of the application date or be completed by January 31, 2026. Eligible Veterans will have earned their Ph.D. within 10 years of application.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with some aspect of challenges on military installations.
- Specific experience can include chemistry, treatment technologies, natural hazards, critical minerals, and/or coastal engineering.
Application Requirements:
- 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
- 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.
- One Recommendation. 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. The 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.
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. All documents must be in English or include an official English translation.
If you have questions, send an email to STEM-WORKFORCE@orise.orau.gov. Please list the reference code of this opportunity SERDP-ESTCP-2025-0001 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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- Degree: Doctoral Degree received within the last 60 months or anticipated to be received by 1/31/2026 11:59:00 PM.
- Discipline(s):
- Age: Must be 18 years of age
- Veteran Status: Veterans Preference, degree received within the last 120 month(s).
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