Post-Baccalaureate Fellowship in Viral Immunology

The Department of Defense (DoD) is offering a Post-Baccalaureate Fellowship in Viral Immunology at the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command - Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRDC MRIID).

Why should I apply?

The Viral Immunology Branch of the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID) is offering a fellowship opportunity for post-bachelor’s degree individuals (within two years of graduation) seeking experience in the area of host-virus interactions, therapeutic and vaccine development, and surveillance for emerging infectious viral pathogens. Our research focuses on high-consequence viral families, including hantaviruses, nairoviruses, flaviviruses, coronaviruses, filoviruses, and paramyxoviruses. Fellows will participate in high-containment BSL-3 and BSL-4 laboratories utilizing a wide range of techniques such as in vitro and in vivo infection models, flow cytometry, ELISA, western blots, and multiplex immunoassays. Our projects rely on successful partnerships with collaborators across academia and government, as well as the private sector from all over the world. This fellowship offers a unique opportunity to participate at the forefront of infectious disease research at USAMRIID, the nation's leading institution for medical biological defense. By joining this program, you will:

• Gain hands-on experience: Participate directly in high-containment BSL-3 and BSL-4 laboratories, learning and applying cutting-edge in vitro and in vivo techniques.
• Collaborate across sectors: Participate in projects involving partnerships with government, industry, and academia, engaging in research that addresses global health challenges.
• Expand your knowledge and skills: Engage with a broad research portfolio that includes therapeutics and vaccine development, pathogen surveillance, and host-virus interactions.
• Be part of a dynamic and supportive research environment: You will participate alongside individuals who are deeply committed to advancing solutions for high-consequence viral pathogens, fostering an environment where your contributions are valued and your growth is encouraged.

NOTE: The fellow will participate in research that requires the individual to obtain and hold Biological Personnel Reliability Program (BPRP) enrollment pursuant to the requirements of the Army Biological Surety Program. Individuals must maintain a current certification of enrollment in the BPRP as a condition of eligibility for continued participation. BPRP is a suitability and reliability program operated by the agency and requires the participant to submit to and satisfactorily complete suitability and reliability screening and analysis. The participant must maintain the standards prescribed for the Army Biological Surety Program, which may include federal drug screening. As a condition of participation, participants in this appointment must also be approved by the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Justice for access. 

Where will I be located?

Frederick, Maryland

What is the anticipated start date?

The USAMRIID 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 of being 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 USAMRIID. 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

Security Clearance 

While participants will not enter an employment relationship with DoD or any other agency, this opportunity will require a suitability investigation/background investigation. Any offer made is considered tentative pending favorable outcome of the investigation, which may include federal drug screening. 

About USAMRIID 

USAMRIID's reputation has been built over the years by numerous scientists and technical staff working to protect both military personnel and civilians from the threat of infectious diseases. The Institute participates in support of emerging disease investigations, working alongside colleagues from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization. As a reference laboratory for the Department of Defense, USAMRIID sets the standard for identification of biological agents. The Institute's workforce represents some of the top infectious disease and biological defense experts in the Nation—indeed, in the world.  For more information about the USAMRIID, please visit https://usamriid.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 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.

Salary : $65,000 - $70,000