USGS Microbial Impacts on Contaminants from Energy Development

*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis.

USGS Office/Lab and Location: A research opportunity is currently available with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) located in Reston, Virginia.

The USGS mission is to monitor, analyze, and predict current and evolving dynamics of complex human and natural Earth-system interactions and to deliver actionable intelligence at scales and timeframes relevant to decision makers. As the Nation's largest water, earth, and biological science and civilian mapping agency, USGS collects, monitors, analyzes, and provides science about natural resource conditions, issues, and problems. 

Research Project: The USGS Reston Microbiology Laboratory conducts environmental microbiology research aimed at understanding the role of microorganisms in contaminated and pristine ecosystems. We carry out a diverse array of research including projects aimed at understanding (1) microbial degradation of hydrocarbons at crude oil spill sites; (2) biodegradation of PFAS compounds; and (3) ecological responses of microbes to impacts from energy development. In this, we use methods from microbiology, molecular biology, and biogeochemistry, such as DNA-based sequencing and anaerobic and aerobic cultivation. Our results inform regulators charged with the protection of human and environmental health and aid in reducing and responding to future contamination issues. A participant in the RML will train with a diverse research team that is collaborating on a variety of experiments for the projects outlined above.

You will train on several projects in RML including research on microorganisms from coal mine and acid mine drainage environments related to critical mineral recovery. We are seeking a highly motivated intern that is interested in gaining experience in interdisciplinary microbiology research who will gain experience in cultivating metal cycling microorganisms and DNA extraction for microbial community characterization. The research project will focus on the cultivation of microorganisms from mine drainage sites. You will gain experience in laboratory research, participate in laboratory maintenance, and data analysis such as that described below.

• Laboratory Research.
  • Laboratory research includes cultivating aerobic bacteria, performing molecular biology assays, and monitoring microbial growth. Bacterial cultivation will include preparation of media, sterile technique, and inoculation and transfer of cultures. Molecular biology techniques will include DNA extractions, PCR, quantitative PCR, and Illumina sequencing. Microbial growth will be monitored using gas chromatography and spectrophotometric assays. This includes preparation of standards and samples and routine analyses on analytical instruments. Samples will come from field and laboratory microbiological experiments. You will receive hands-on training from RML staff on all techniques.
• Data Analysis.
  • You will gain experience collating microbiological data into EXCEL spreadsheets, proofing spreadsheets, and plotting data to look for trends in multiple studies. Sequencing data will be analyzed using bioinformatics programs such as Mothur and R.
• Laboratory Maintenance.
  • This includes organizing chemicals, sorting of samples and laboratory equipment and supplies, and general glassware cleanup. You will also help in the preparation of sampling supplies and equipment and shipping of supplies prior to field excursions.
• Additional Experiences.
  • You will be trained to maintain careful and accurate records in a Laboratory Notebook and will follow basic laboratory procedures. You will also attend scientific seminars and journal club discussions at USGS in order to learn more broadly about environmental research and issues such as scientific ethics and data preservation protocols (as available).  You will also conduct literature reviews and participate in weekly group meetings to learn more about the scientific process, evaluate the literature and how to design research experiments. 

Learning Objectives: You will develop technical skills in environmental microbiology, including the cultivation and characterization of microorganisms from mine drainage sites and the application of interdisciplinary laboratory methods. You will gain experience designing experiments, conducting literature reviews, analyzing data, and interpreting results within the context of microbial ecology. Through engagement in seminars and journal discussions, you will deepen your understanding of the scientific process, research ethics, and data management practices. By the end of the fellowship, you will strengthen your ability to critically evaluate scientific literature and communicate research findings within a professional scientific setting.

Mentor: The mentor for this opportunity is Denise Akob (dakob@usgs.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s). 

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: June 15, 2026. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.

Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for 8 weeks, but may be renewed upon recommendation of DOI and is contingent on the availability of funds.

Level of Participation: The appointment is full time.

Participant Stipend: Stipend rates may vary based on numerous factors, including opportunity, location, education, and experience. If you are interviewed, you can inquire about the exact stipend rate at that time and if selected, your appointment offer will include the monthly stipend rate.

Citizenship Requirements: This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR), and foreign nationals. Non-U.S. citizen applicants should refer to the Guidelines for Non-U.S. Citizens Details page of the program website for information about the valid immigration statuses that are acceptable for program participation.

ORISE Information: This program, administered by 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 USGS. Participants do not become employees of USGS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.

Questions: If you have questions about the application process please email USGS@orau.org  and include the reference code for this opportunity.