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The Department of Defense (DoD) is offering a post-doctoral fellowship at the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command - Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRDC MRIID).

What will I be doing?

As an ORISE participant, you will participate in investigations leading to an understanding of mechanisms of replication, antigenic structures, correlates of protection, and virulence properties of highly pathogenic human viruses, particularly members of the Bunyavirales order. The overarching goal is to prevent or treat severe disease caused by these pathogens. Current efforts include (1) developing immunotherapeutics targeting viruses (2) identifying immune (innate and adaptive) components necessary for host-control of viral infection (2) understanding virus-induced innate immune responses as potential drivers of pathogenesis caused by hemorrhagic fever viruses (3) identifying virus and host factors important for virulence.  BSL2, BSL3, and BSL4 containment laboratories are used as required to conduct these studies.

Why should I apply?

Under the guidance of a mentor, you will gain hands-on experience to complement your education and support your academic and professional goals. Along the way, you will engage in activities and research in several areas. These include but are not limited to:

• Gaining knowledge and experience in research areas including virology, immunology, pathology, and molecular biology.
• Learning from experienced scientists
• Acquiring advanced skills in study design, wet/dry laboratory work, data analysis, interpretation of results, and presentation of research discoveries.

Where will I be located?

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 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 benefits?

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 benefits may include the following:

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

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.

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 or be currently pursuing a doctoral degree in immunology, and/or virology and/or microbiology.  Degree must have been received within five years of the appointment start date.  

Highly competitive applicants will have laboratory experience in immunology and virology, and experience in BSL3 or BSL4.

The researcher will conduct research that requires the individual to obtain and hold Biological Personnel Reliability Program (BPRP) enrollment pursuant to the requirements of the Army Biological Surety Program. Individuals must maintain a current certification of enrollment in the BPRP as a condition of eligibility for continued participation. The BPRP is a suitability and reliability program operated by the agency and requires the participant to submit to and satisfactorily complete suitability and reliability screening and analysis. The participant must maintain the standards prescribed for the Army Biological Surety Program. As a condition of participation, participants in this appointment must also be approved by the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Justice for access.

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.
• One Recommendation. Your application will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed until one recommendation is submitted. 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. 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 army-mrmc@orise.orau.gov. Please list the reference code of this opportunity [MRDC-USAMRIID-2024-0002] 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.

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: Currently pursuing a Doctoral Degree to be received by 12/30/2024 11:59:00 PM.
• Discipline(s):
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (3 )