What are the responsibilities and job description for the WRAIR - Optimization and Evaluation of mRNA Platform Technology Research Inernship position at U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)?
The Department of Defense (DoD) is offering a post bachelor's internship at the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command - Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (USAMRDC WRAIR).
Why should I apply?
The utility of the mRNA platform for infectious diseases lies in its speed, flexibility, safety and ability to elicit robust immune responses. mRNA medicines can be rapidly developed, modified, and combined into single formulations to target multiple pathogens. The technology uses a genetic blueprint to create a novel mRNA for target proteins, which can be encapsulated into lipid nanoparticles (LNPS) for delivery and cellular uptake. This research opportunity will focus on a targeted gene design, bioinformatics approach, to develop coding and noncoding sequence elements for stabilizing mRNAs for in vivo delivery. These mRNAs will either express target antigens as vaccine candidates or for delivery of heavy and light chain antibodies as immunoprophylactic molecules or as mRNA replacement therapeutics.
What will I be doing?
Under the guidance of a mentor and as the selected candidate, you will learn how to apply algorithms to predict parts of coding and noncoding sequences for optimization. As a result, designed mRNA transcripts will be produced by standard molecular biological techniques, i.e. plasmid DNA isolation, PCR amplification of templates and mRNA in vitro transcription reactions (IVT). You will gain experience using standard methods to purify mRNA molecules to homogeneity and evaluate them for quality. The final mRNA products will be assessed in in vitro assays for expression levels, and cellular localization. In addition to the in vitro assessment, you will engage in the evaluation of mRNAs in vivo in mice to determine effectiveness of the approach. These studies will be used to identify basic features of mRNA transcripts that enhance mRNA stability and efficiency of translation.
Where will I be located?
Silver Spring, Maryland
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 provisions?
You will receive a stipend to be determined by WRAIR. 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 WRAIR
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.