USAISR Biological Science Laboratory Internship

About the role

The Department of Defense (DoD) is offering a post bachelor's or master's internship at the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command - Institute of Surgical Research (USAMRDC ISR).

Why should I apply?

As an ORISE participant, you will join a community of scientists, engineers, and researchers in an effort to conduct large and small animal research. Large animal (swine) research focuses on developing and evaluating models of traumatic injury, including non-compressible hemorrhage, antishock interventions, and tourniquet conversion. These studies aim to better understand the physiological responses to severe trauma and to test novel therapeutic strategies for improving survival and recovery in critical care scenarios. Small animal (rat) research investigates the use of polyethylene glycol (PEG-20K) to reduce storage lesions in cold-stored whole blood and to mitigate shock-induced vascular dysfunction, specifically examining the preservation and restoration of the endothelial glycocalyx following transfusion. Small animal research includes Prophylactic HIG Complex Stabilization and explores prophylactic treatments designed to stabilize the HIG (heparin-induced glycocalyx) complex, aiming to ameliorate ischemia-reperfusion injury caused by tourniquet application. In addition, Thermogenic Adipocyte Reprogramming via Nanotechnology investigates the use of nanotechnology to reprogram adipocytes for enhanced thermogenesis as a potential therapy for cold trauma. Finally, Biomarker Analysis via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) across these animal models will be used to quantify physiological and pathological changes, providing insights into injury mechanisms and therapeutic efficacy.

What will I be doing?

• Developing skills in performing ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) experiments, including hands-on experience with sample preparation, reagent handling, and interpreting experimental data
• Acquiring experience in the collection, processing, and storage of blood samples, following established laboratory protocols and safety guidelines
• Learning to maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records, including the creation and management of sample logs and documentation of experimental results
• Gaining familiarity with laboratory equipment maintenance and calibration procedures, and developing skills with routine equipment upkeep
• Learning routine laboratory processes and procedures related to handling laboratory inventory, supplies as well as laboratory safety and biosafety practices

Where will I be located?

San Antonio, Texas

What is the anticipated start date?

The USAISR is ready to make appointments immediately. Exact start dates will be determined at the time of selection and in coordination with the selected candidate. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis and internships or fellowships will be filled as qualified candidates are identified.

What is the appointment length?

Appointments are initially for one year with the option to extend the appointment for up to four additional years, contingent upon project needs and funding availability.

What are the provisions?

• You will receive a stipend to be determined by USAISR. 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

Security Clearance

While participants will not enter an employment relationship with DoD or any other agency, this opportunity will require a suitability investigation/background investigation. Any offer made is considered tentative pending favorable outcome of the investigation.

About USAISR

The U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research is one of six research laboratories within the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command of the U.S. Army Medicine Command. The Institute is the Army's lead research laboratory for improving the care of combat casualties. The mission of the Institute is to "Optimize Combat Casualty Care". For more information about the USAISR, please visit https://usaisr.health.mil/index.cfm/research.

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 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.

About the Department of Defense (DoD)

The Department of Defense (DoD) is offering a post bachelor's or master's internship at the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command - Institute of Surgical Research (USAMRDC ISR).

Qualifications

• The qualified candidate will have a bachelor's or master's degree in chemistry/materials science, cellular and molecular biology, immunology, genetics other eligible discipline. Degree must have been received within five years of the appointment start date.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in a research or clinical laboratory setting.
• Experience with ELISA assays.
• Experience in blood sampling and handling biological samples.

Application Requirements

• 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 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.