WRAIR - Genetics and Parasite Biology Research Fellowship

Reference Code

MRDC-WRAIR-2024-0008

Description

The Department of Defense (DoD) is offering a Post Bachelor's, Post Master's, or currently pursuing Bachelor's or Master's internship at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) located in Silver Spring, Maryland.

What will I be doing?

As the selected candidate, you will participate in research using a variety of molecular biology assays and bioinformatic tools to analyze malaria parasite genomes for the purpose of selecting genetically diverse strains from different geographic areas to use for controlled human malaria infection (CHMI) to provide support to anti-malaria drugs and vaccines testing. In addition, as the selected candidate, you will collaborate extensively with internal and external researchers on the culture adaptation and cloning of field malaria parasite strains.

Why should I apply?

You will gain extensive educational experience that will greatly enhance your career opportunities. In particular, you will gain hands-on knowledge of working with cultures of malaria parasites at different stages of development under cGMP conditions, microsatellite analysis, targeted sequencing, SNP analysis and WGS analysis. This combination of assays is extremely difficult to find. Furthermore, you will be conducting analyses using the most state-of-the-art software and bioinformatics tools, such as DNASTAR’s Genomics Suite and GeneMapper.

Where will I be located?

Silver Spring, Maryland

What is the anticipated start date?

The WRAIR 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.

Appointment Length

This appointment is a twelve-month, 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? 

Participants will receive a stipend to be determined by WRAIR. Stipends are typically based on the 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. See www.wrair.army.mil for more information.

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 earned a bachelor's or master's degree within the last 48 months or be currently pursuing with an anticipated completion date of August 30, 2024. Preferred disciplines include Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, Microbiology, or Cell Biology. Related disciplines will also be considered. 

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

• Knowledge of basic laboratory skills (sterile technique is a plus)
• Good documentation abilities
• Desire to learn
• Organized
• Detail-oriented ethic

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. 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. 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-MRMC@orise.orau.gov. Please list the reference code of this opportunity [MRDC-WRAIR-2024-0008] 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.

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!

Eligibility Requirements

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree received within the last 48 months or anticipated to be received by 8/30/2024 12:00:00 AM.
• Academic Level(s): Graduate Students, Post-Bachelor's, Post-Master's, or Undergraduate Students.
• Discipline(s):
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (6 )