Cellular Biology Internship at U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense (USAMRICD)
The Department of Defense (DoD) is offering bachelor's level internships at the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense (USAMRICD).
What will I be doing?
As an Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) participant, you will join a community of scientists and researchers in an effort to analyze mutant enzymes from human and bacterial sources for catalytic activities against a broad spectrum of organophosphorus nerve agents and other substrates.
Why should I apply?
Under the guidance of a mentor, you will gain hands-on experience to 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:
- Incumbent will have laboratory opportunities which may include assessment of enzyme concentrations, characterization of enzyme size by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, characterization of polydispersive index (pdi) and hydrodynamic radius (Rh) using light scattering instruments, enzyme based activity assays for developing kinetic constants, thermal denaturation experiments to assess enzyme stability and, assist in preparations for organophosphorus nerve agent hydrolysis assays, as well as other laboratory opportunities when available.
- Presentation of posters at scientific meetings will be encouraged.
- Critical thinking on the feasibility of newly published scientific manuscripts will be required to advance our science forward.
- POC: Stephen Kirby (stephen.d.kirby.civ@health.mil)
Where will I be located?
Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland
What is the anticipated start date?
June 1, 2023
What is the appointment length?
Appointments are initially for one year with the option to extend the appointment for up to four additional years, contingent upon project needs and funding availability.
What are the benefits?
The annual stipend for this research opportunity ranges from $46,000 - $51,000. MRICD will determine the specific amount at the time of selection and is 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 USAMRICD
The U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense (USAMRICD) is the Department of Defense's lead laboratory for medical chemical defense research. As a subordinate element of the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command (USAMRMC), the institute conducts research for development of medical countermeasures to treat exposure to various chemical threat agents for protection of soldiers and civilians. Scientific disciplines at USAMRICD include, but are not limited to, chemistry, biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, molecular biology, neuroscience, toxicology, physiology, psychology, and immunology. For more information about the USAMRICD, please visit https://usamricd.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.
Qualifications
The qualified candidate will have a bachelor's degree. Degree must have been received within five years of the appointment start date.