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The Test Support Division, Test Science Branch, of the Research and Development Directorate for the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is offering a master's/doctoral level fellowship opportunity in kinetic weapons technology. 

What will I be doing and why should I apply?

DTRA-West offers a distinctly unique experience for research-based experiences, professional development, and future career opportunities for selected fellows and interns, not to mention the beauty of Albuquerque and the surrounding area. As a selected candidate, you will engage with researchers and engineers within the DTRA complex and be a part of, and witness to, objective evaluations and assessments of new capabilities aimed at countering WMD and emerging threats. Albuquerque is New Mexico’s largest city, where the modern city skyline is set against a backdrop of the stunning Sandia Mountains and an endless, timeless blue sky. Albuquerque boasts a unique multicultural history and heritage. Native American, Hispanic & Latino cultural influences are a part of everyday life.

As an ORISE participant, you will join a community of scientists and researchers, engaging in planning and accomplishing research projects in the Test Support Division, Test Science Branch at DTRA.  As the selected ORISE intern, and under the guidance of a mentor, you will support kinetic and other weapons testing at White Sands Missile Range, Kirtland Air-Force Base, and other test sites, along with engaging in activities and research in several areas, including:

• Researching issues and conducting feasibility studies pertaining to the engineering and scientific elements of prospective projects/tests
• Collaborating in test teams to design and develop test plans, and analysis methodologies
• Learning presentation techniques incorporating information related to kinetic and/or non-kinetic weapons effects
• Gaining experience with diagnostic instrumentation development, gauge ranging, and analyzing test data
• Evaluating test results and documenting findings
• Participating in Technical Interchange Meetings (TIMS) with customers, technical personnel, and contractors to gather technical requirements from all parties

Within one year, you will have gained significant knowledge and experience related to the modeling and analysis of weapons systems interactions with targets and the response and damage of targets to weapons effects. 

Where will I be located?

Albuquerque, New Mexico

What is the anticipated start date?

The Test Support Division, Test Science Branch at DTRA 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 full-time, 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 benefits?

You will receive a stipend to be determined by DTRA. Stipends are typically based on a participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location. The anticipated stipend range for this opportunity is $5400-$5800 per month based on full time participation.

Other benefits may include the following:

• Health Insurance Supplement (Participants are eligible to purchase health insurance through ORISE)
• Relocation/Dislocation Allowance
• Training and Travel Allowance

About DTRA

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency provides cross-cutting solutions to enable the DoD, the United States Government, and international partners to DETER strategic attack against the United States and its allies; PREVENT, reduce, and counter Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and emerging threats; and PREVAIL against WMD-armed adversaries in crisis and conflict.  This opportunity is within the Research and Development Directorate of DTRA, Test and Assessment Department. For more information about the DTRA, please visit https://www.dtra.mil/. 

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 an earned master's or doctoral degree in Engineering (General), Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Physics (General) or related discipline within the past 60 months or are expected to earn a master's or doctoral degree in one of these disciplines within six months of the appointment start date.

• Minimum GPA of 3.0 is required
• Candidate must be at least 21 years of age at the time of application
• Must be able to obtain and hold a SECRET security clearance and pass random drug screening
• Candidates who are currently students or graduates of an HBCU or MSI are encouraged to apply
• Must be a U.S. Citizen

Highly qualified candidates will demonstrate:

• Experience with MATLAB is preferred
• Familiarity with emerging technologies including instrumentation. computer modeling & simulation (e.g. Matlab, CFD, and/or other), and the use of a variety of computer models for the prediction and planning of test event

The selected candidate must be able to pass interim SECRET security clearance requirement, hold a SECRET security clearance, and pass random drug screening.  Appointment offers will be rescinded should the candidate fail to meet the drug screening and interim security clearance requirement.

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 - We encourage you to contact your recommender 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 recommender 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 STEM-WORKFORCE@orise.orau.gov.  Please list the reference code of this opportunity DTRA-2024-0008 in the subject line of the email.

Connect with ORISE...on the GO! Download the new ORISE GO mobile app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to help you stay engaged, connected, and informed during your ORISE experience and beyond!

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: Master's Degree or Doctoral Degree received within the last 60 months or anticipated to be received by 6/30/2025 11:59:00 PM.
• Overall GPA: 3.00
• Discipline(s):
  • Engineering (4 )
  • Physics (1 )
• Veteran Status: Veterans Preference, degree received within the last 120 month(s).

I affirm that I am 21 years of age or older at the time of application.