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The Research Transition Office (RTO) at Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) is seeking a current, or recently graduated, bachelor's or master's level candidate in a social science field.

What will I be doing and why I should apply?

As an ORISE participant and under the guidance of a mentor, you will be involved with the mission of the RTO to translate research to the operational environment by developing, evaluating, and disseminating knowledge products for Soldiers. As the selected candidate, you will have the opportunity to support the development of research-based knowledge products and evaluations conducted by the RTO. You will learn the translation of empirically based concepts of training programs using experiential and adult learning frameworks related to Soldier performance, leader development, and unit cohesion. Under the direction of expert researchers, you may engage in mixed method evaluations and related applied research activities (i.e., qualitative and quantitative data collection and analyses). These projects influence operational impact through real-time field-testing and pilot studies of the novel programs, informing implementation at garrison or in deployed settings. Curricular materials collaboratively developed by participants and their mentors would include base modules, booster trainings, facilitation resources, and participant materials. In addition, you may learn how to develop and implement advance training and education skills, including research translation capabilities, facilitation and instruction, and assessment/evaluation. These experiences provide research training, career preparation, and access to the military research network (e.g., Defense Health Agency, Army Futures Command). Finally, you will collaborate with other research personnel, retired non-commissioned officers, and active-duty Soldiers and Medical Service Corps officers to design operational knowledge products and communicate effectively with Army leaders and the scientific community through briefs and presentations.

Where will I be located?

Varies

What is the anticipated start date?

The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research 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 twelve-month research appointment, with the possibility to be renewed for additional research periods. This internship may be part or full-time. 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 Walter Reed Army Institute of Research. 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 WRAIR

The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) aims to conduct biomedical research that is responsive to Department of Defense and U.S. Army requirements and delivers lifesaving products including knowledge, technology and medical material that sustain the combat effectiveness of the warfighter. WRAIR provides unique research capabilities and innovative medical solutions to a range of Force Health Protection and Readiness challenges currently facing U.S. Service Members, along with threats anticipated during future operations. These research opportunities include ongoing efforts to identify and treat traumatic brain injury as well as to understand and mitigate the deleterious effects of repeated exposures to blast. For more information about the WRAIR, please visit www.wrair.health.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 be currently pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree with an anticipated graduation date of June 30, 2025, or have an earned bachelor's or master's degree within 60 months in a social science or related field. 

Preferred experience includes one-year of social science (e.g., counseling psychology, social work, occupational therapy) research or practice.

U.S. citizenship or permanent resident is required.

Highly competitive applicants will have education and/or experience in one or more of the following:

• Excellent communication, organization, and prioritization skills.
• Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: knowledge of applicable complex scientific procedures and techniques relating to position is preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of analysis/statistical programs, such as SPSS, and electronic survey platforms is preferred, but not required.
• Physical Capabilities: work may involve long periods of standing, interacting with research volunteers, and travel for data collection or training opportunities.

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 a 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. 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 ARMY-MRMC@orise.orau.gov.  Please list the reference code of this opportunity MRMC-WRAIR-2023-0010 in the subject line of the email.

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• Citizenship: LPR or U.S. Citizen
• Degree: Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree received within the last 60 months or anticipated to be received by 6/30/2025 12:00:00 AM.
• Minimum Overall GPA: 2.50
• Discipline(s):
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (3 )
  • Other Non-Science & Engineering (2 )
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences (7 )
• Age: Must be 18 years of age
• Veteran Status: Veterans Preference, degree received within the last 120 month(s).