Engineering Test Laboratory - Summer Undergraduate Research Internship
The U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command - Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM CBC) is offering summer undergraduate engineering internships.
What will I be doing and why should I apply?
As an Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) participant, you will join a community of scientists and researchers in their efforts at DEVCOM CBC's Engineering Test Laboratory. This opportunity is for STEM-focused undergraduates, and recent graduates, with a strong interest in STEM professions.
Under the guidance of a mentor, you will gain hands-on experience in one of several labs focused on test and evaluation of chemical protective equipment, sensor systems, or decontamination systems. You will engage with experienced lab operators, scientists, and engineers with access to a variety of analytical instrumentation and test systems. You will learn how to prepare test samples, participate in test events, analyze data and prepare reports. You will gain understanding of good laboratory practices, develop communication skills to participate effectively with a team of scientists and engineers, and give a short presentation of your research project at the end of the summer. You will understand how to safely research in a laboratory environment and be expected to comply with safety rules and policies.
Where will I be located?
Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland
What is the anticipated start date?
DEVCOM CBC 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 will be filled as qualified candidates are identified.
What is the appointment length?
This appointment is a 2-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 provisions?
You will receive a stipend to be determined by DEVCOM CBC. 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)
- Relocation Allowance
- Training and Travel Allowance
About DEVCOM CBC
The U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command - Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM CBC) is the primary Department of Defense technical organization for nonmedical chemical and biological defense. DEVCOM CBC activities at the Edgewood portion of Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, provide an extraordinary capability against emerging biological and chemical threats by merging intelligence assessments with its world-renowned chemistry, biology, physiology and engineering expertise at every stage of the acquisition life cycle. We provide a unique blend of distinguished scientists and engineers for the research and development of innovative technological solutions to solve chemical and biological defense threats to our nation—both abroad and on the homeland.
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 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.
Qualifications
The qualified candidate is a US citizen currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree, or has obtained a Bachelor's degree within the past 5 years. The qualified candidate must also have a strong interest in engineering, chemistry, or related fields as well as motivation to participate in a laboratory.
Highly competitive applicants will have general computer skills, including making presentations and analyzing data in spreadsheets or statistical/graphing software.
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 - Please upload a copy of a transcript for your current or most recent degree program that meets the disciplinary qualifications of the opportunity. Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
- One Recommendation(s). We encourage you to contact your recommender(s) 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. 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.
If you have questions, send an email to ARMY-RDECOM@orise.orau.gov. Please list the reference code of this opportunity [DEVCOM-CBC-2026-0008] 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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Stipend
$3,000.00 – $5,000.00 Monthly
Point of Contact
Eligibility Requirements
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
- Degree: Bachelor's Degree received within the last 60 months or currently pursuing.