Biology Research Fellowship

About the Opportunity

The Department of Defense (DoD) is offering a Master's or Doctoral research fellowship through the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) at the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command - Soldier Center (DEVCOM-SC) in Natick, Massachusetts.

Research Activities

As an ORISE participant, you will join a community of scientists and researchers engaging in organoid/cell biology research activities including nutritional physiology, immune system modulation, and gastrointestinal cell culture to support gut health-related projects.

Primary techniques and approaches will include establishing intestinal organoid in vitro models to test hypotheses relating to mechanisms response of intestinal epithelial cells in response to military relevant stressors, and in identifying nutritional countermeasures. Various methods including molecular assay techniques (e.g. qPCR, ELISA, confocal microscopy, -omics, immunoblots), biostatistics, AI/ML experience/mastery, organ-on-chip technologies, and the equipment will be utilized to accomplish research in the above areas.

Professional Development

Under the guidance of a mentor, you will gain hands-on experience to complement your education and support your academic and professional goals. Along the way, you will engage in activities and research in several areas, including but not limited to:

• Developing skills in planning and conducting 3D organoid cell culture procedures
• Gaining experience carrying out research studies in organoid biology and nutrition
• Participating in presentations, briefings, scientific manuscripts, and data analysis

Appointment Details

This appointment is a 12-month, full-time research appointment 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. The anticipated start date is August 2026, with exact start dates determined at the time of selection and in coordination with the selected candidate.

Location: Natick, Massachusetts

Qualifications

The qualified candidate is a U.S. citizen who will have completed a Master's or Doctoral degree in a relevant discipline within 5 years of the appointment start date.

Preferred skills:

• Experience with cell culture skills (human or animal models) with an emphasis on organoid and stem cell biology
• Analytical and molecular techniques (i.e. qPCR, ELISA, multiplex genomic and proteomic assays)
• Bioengineering or familiarity with different cell-based biotechnology platforms
• Biostatistics
• Confocal imaging
• Scientific writing
• AI/ML experience

Benefits

You will receive a stipend of $75,000 – $83,000 per year. Other provisions include:

• Health Insurance Supplement (participants are eligible to purchase health insurance through ORISE)
• Training and Travel Allowance

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
• One Recommendation – 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.

Please reference the opportunity code DEVCOM-SC-2026-0003 in the subject line of any correspondence. All application materials should be submitted via the "Apply" button on the opportunity listing.