A complete application consists of:

• An application
• Transcripts – 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 references

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.

A postgraduate research training opportunity is currently available at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Office of Air and Radiation (OAR). This appointment will be served with the Indoor Environments Division (IED) in the Office of Radiation and Indoor Air (ORIA) in Washington, DC.

The goal of this research project is to conduct research on publically available portable air sensors and how to use and interpret the information from these sensors in indoor environments, focusing on the residential environment. This project will involve examination of how biological and chemical contaminants indoors are detected by air sensors, interpretation of portable air sensor or monitor results or readings, sensor validation, examination of indoor chemistry issues related to sensors, and implications for mitigation guidance for consumers and other stakeholders. This research may ultimately contribute to the development of an indoor air metric(s) or index for chemical and biological contaminants indoors. Knowledge of indoor chemistry, indoor microbiomes, citizen science concepts, and quality assurance may be beneficial.

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. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. The appointment is full-time. Participants do not become employees of EPA, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits.

The mentor for this project is Laura Kolb (kolb.laura@epa.gov). The desired start date is August 1, 2018. Start date is flexible.

Applicants must have received a master’s degree in biology, microbiology, public health or other related field within five years of the desired starting date.  The ideal candidate will have some knowledge of indoor air quality (IAQ) issues, including knowledge of indoor chemistry and indoor biological contaminants. 

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: Master's Degree received within the last 60 month(s).
• Discipline(s):
  • Chemistry and Materials Sciences (1 )
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (2 )