AFIT Radiation Interaction Research Internship

What will I be doing?

As an ORISE participant, you will join a community of scientists and researchers in their efforts to investigate the interactions of radiation with a wide range of materials such as nuclear fuels/cladding, radiation detectors, and Air Force air crew. Selected candidates will study the fundamental physics involved and explore the connections to Air Force related applications. Computational tools will be used to simulate and deepen understanding of these interactions. The selected candidates will then participate in interpreting the effects of the simulations to assess impact on applications.

Why should I apply?

• Gain hands-on experience to complement your education and support your academic and professional goals
• Engage in activities and research in several areas including:
• Relate fundamental nuclear physics and engineering concepts to Air Force applications and experimental data
• Gain experience with computational simulations of radiation interactions and subsequent effects
• Learn to communicate results to the broader AFIT and scientific communities via written reports, poster presentations, and/or oral presentations

Where will I be located?

Dayton, Ohio

What is the anticipated start date?

Exact start dates determined at the time of selection and in coordination with the selected candidate. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis and internships will be filled as qualified candidates are identified.

What is the appointment length?

Research interns are typically appointed for a term of 10 weeks, with the possibility to be renewed for additional 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 AFIT. Stipends are typically based on a participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location.
• Health Insurance Supplement (Participants are eligible to purchase health insurance through ORISE)
• Relocation Allowance
• Training and Travel Allowance

About AFIT

The Air Force Institute of Technology, or AFIT, located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the Air Force’s graduate school of engineering and management as well as its institution for technical professional continuing education. A component of Air University and Air Education and Training Command, AFIT is committed to providing defense-focused graduate and professional continuing education and research to sustain the technological supremacy of America’s air, space and cyber forces.

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 completed or be currently pursuing a bachelor's degree.
• The degree must have been received within five years of the appointment start date.
• Hightly competitive applicants will have education and/or experience in one or more of the following:
• Programming experience
• Basic Physics coursework

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 - Please upload a copy of a transcript for your current or most recent degree program that meets the disciplinary qualifications of the opportunity. Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
• One Recommendation. We encourage you to contact your recommender(s) 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.

Contact Information

If you have questions, send an email to AIRFORCE@orise.orau.gov. Please list the reference code of this opportunity [AFIT-2026-0002] 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.

Additional Resources

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!