SERDP-ESTCP Strategic Environmental Research Fellowship

About the role

The Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP) and the Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) are offering a postdoctoral fellowship within the Department of Defense. The selected candidate will work with a DoD organization advancing research, development, test, and evaluation of scalable, mission-critical technologies. SERDP and ESTCP oversee more than 400 active demonstration projects focused on site remediation, energy systems, natural hazards, and water supply.

Responsibilities

• Conduct rigorous data analysis and cross-project data synthesis under the guidance of a scientific mentor.
• Identify critical technical and data gaps and determine future applied research priorities.
• Synthesize complex scientific findings into technical evaluations and author peer-reviewed manuscripts.
• Develop empirical data visualizations to support leadership decision-making.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in an eligible STEM discipline received within the last five years or expected by December 31, 2026.
• Eligible veterans may have earned their Ph.D. within the last ten years.

Preferred Skills

• Experience addressing challenges on military installations.
• Experience in chemistry, treatment technologies, natural hazards, critical minerals, and/or coastal engineering.

Benefits

• Stipend in the anticipated range of $110,000–$120,000 for a 12-month appointment, determined by academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location.
• Health insurance supplement available through ORISE.
• Training and travel allowance.

Schedule

• Appointment is initially for one year with the option to extend for up to four additional years, contingent on project needs and funding availability.
• Exact start date determined at selection and in coordination with the selected candidate.
• Applications reviewed on an ongoing basis; the fellowship will be filled as a qualified candidate is identified.
• Occasional travel to Alexandria, VA and key scientific meetings required.