CDC Digital Transformation Fellowship at Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. A research opportunity is available with the Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice (DEHSP) of the National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia.

About the role

This opportunity focuses on the study and application of artificial intelligence and machine learning methods for process automation within SharePoint and Microsoft enterprise platforms. Under the guidance of a mentor, the participant will explore research approaches related to large language model integration, intelligent document processing, workflow design, and data visualization techniques associated with HR, Budget, and Travel scenarios. Activities may include examining methods for translating standard operating procedures into automated workflows, evaluating AI/ML data interpretation methods, and investigating approaches for presenting process-related information through dashboards and reporting tools.

Learning Objectives

• Gain practical knowledge of AI/ML applications for workflow automation, including experience with large language models, prompt engineering, intelligent document processing, and SharePoint-based system integration.
• Develop skills in data analysis and visualization by exploring methods for transforming operational data into dashboards and metrics that communicate trends, process flow, and resource utilization to varied audiences.
• Analyze standard operating procedures, identify automation opportunities, and translate business logic into research-based workflow designs.
• Strengthen professional communication and technical documentation abilities.
• Gain familiarity with approaches for validating AI/ML-generated outputs, developing user guidance materials, and participating in collaborative discussions related to technology adoption and process improvement within a federal research environment.

Mentor

The mentor for this opportunity is Bethany Anderson (bja3@cdc.gov).

Schedule

• Anticipated appointment start date: August 24, 2026 (flexible).
• Appointment length: Initially one year, renewable contingent on the availability of funds.
• Level of participation: Full-time.

Stipend

Stipend rates may vary based on opportunity, location, education, and experience. If interviewed, you can inquire about the exact stipend rate at that time.

Requirements

• U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR).
• Master’s degree received within the past five years in Data Science, Information Systems, Computer Science, or a related discipline.

Preferred Skills

• Applied AI & Workflow Automation: Knowledge of low-code/no-code automation platforms (specifically Microsoft Power Automate/Cloud Flow and SharePoint) and the ability to integrate Artificial Intelligence models (e.g., Gemini, Machine Learning APIs) to process unstructured data and automate document generation.
• Data Visualization & Analytics: Skill in utilizing data visualization tools (such as Power BI) to ingest operational data and design interactive, multi-tiered dashboards that track project management metrics, identify bottlenecks, and monitor performance at both the organizational and individual levels.
• Business Systems Analysis: Ability to analyze complex SOPs, review recorded trainings, independently interview Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) across diverse functional areas (HR, Budget, Travel), and translate those business requirements into actionable technical workflows.
• Quality Assurance & Validation: Skill in developing and executing testing protocols to ensure the accuracy, data integrity, and reliability of AI-extracted information, particularly when handling sensitive administrative or personnel data.
• Technical Communication & Training: Ability to translate complex technical concepts for non-technical audiences, draft clear SOPs and user guides, conduct effective training sessions, and report project status clearly to management and operations teams.
• Developing automated workflows (e.g., using Power Automate/Cloud Flow), prompt engineering, helping with data visualization/dashboards, utilizing modern technology or AI tools to solve business or administrative problems, demonstrated knowledge with Machine Learning (ML) and AI tools.
• Strong integration experience in enterprise automation, Application Programming Interface (API) development, and the Microsoft ecosystem (Outlook, Excel) and SharePoint.

Additional Information

This program is 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). Participants do not become employees of CDC, DOE, or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. The successful applicant(s) will be required to comply with Environmental, Safety and Health (ES&H) requirements of the hosting facility, including but not limited to, COVID-19 requirements (e.g., facial covering, physical distancing, testing, vaccination).