FDA Postdoctoral Fellowship - Investigating the Effects of Cell-Materials Interactions on the Safety and Effectiveness of Cell Therapy Products

Research Project

The project aims to explore methods and approaches to improve the manufacture of small extracellular vesicles (sEV), formerly known as exosomes, based therapeutics. Under the guidance and direction of investigators, the applicant will apply engineering, cell culture, and microbiology techniques to investigate the biogenesis, production, and purification of sEV from cell culture in bioreactors.

Mentor

Kyung Sung
kyung.sung@fda.hhs.gov

Learning Objectives

Through this fellowship, you will have the opportunity to learn about production of sEV, an emerging and cutting-edge biological product with the potential to address gaps in drug delivery and treatment.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in a related field such as biochemical or chemical engineering, biological sciences, or related field. Degree must have been received within five years of the appointment start date.
• Experience with the growth of mammalian cells, ideally MSCs or HEK293 cells.
• Experience with the production, measurement, and characterization of sEVs (nanoparticle tracking, immunoblotting for sEVs markers, and TEM).
• Experience analyzing cell culture medium components using HPLC and ELISA or similar methods.
• Ability to prioritize multiple activities, troubleshoot technical issues, develop and execute detailed technical protocols, and act independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent documentation and oral and written communication skills.

Benefits

This is a full-time appointment with a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program.

Contact Information

If you have questions, send an email to ORISE.FDA.CBER@orau.org. Please include the reference code for this opportunity in your email.

Application Process

To submit your application, scroll to the bottom of this opportunity and click APPLY.

Application Materials

• An application
• Transcripts – Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts
• A current resume/CV, including academic history, employment history, relevant experiences, and publication list
• One educational or professional recommendation

Required Documents

• All documents must be in English or include an official English translation.
• Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program.

Background Investigation

A background investigation by the Office of Personnel Management is required for an applicant to be on-boarded at FDA.

ORISE Education and Training Agreement

The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Participants do not become employees of FDA, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits.

ORISE GO Mobile App

The ORISE GO mobile app helps you stay engaged, connected and informed during your ORISE experience – from application, to offer, through your appointment and even as an ORISE alum!