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Nerve Agent Intoxication Countermeasure and Animal Model Development Projects

The U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense (USAMRICD) is the Department of Defense’s lead laboratory for medical chemical defense research. As a subordinate element of the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command (USAMRMC), the institute conducts research for development of medical countermeasures to treat exposure to various chemical threat agents for protection of soldiers and civilians. Scientific disciplines at USAMRICD include, but are not limited to, chemistry, biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, molecular biology, neuroscience, toxicology, physiology, psychology, and immunology. Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/USAMRICD.

What will I be doing?

USAMRICD is offering an opportunity for students or recent graduates of all academic levels, undergraduate through doctoral, at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Edgewood, Maryland. 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. These include several projects in two main research areas in a laboratory at the USAMRICD:

  1. Development of a human-relevant small animal model for the testing of countermeasures for nerve agent intoxication
  2. Identification and/or design of novel small molecules for the reversal of acetylcholinesterase inhibition by organophosphorus nerve agents (the main cause of nerve agent intoxication)

As the selected participant, you will develop skills needed to implement standard mouse breeding practices, participate in animal experiments aimed at characterizing genetically modified mice, and learn a variety of in vitro techniques including PCR genotyping and biochemical enzyme activity assays. In addition, you will engage in data compilation and analysis techniques, prepare manuscripts, posters, presentations and other technical writings. Finally, this opportunity will include learning FDA Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) guidelines and participation in GLP or Animal Rule Qualifying (ARQ) studies.

For more information regarding projects associated with this opportunity, please contact Dr. Linn Cadieux at christena.l.cadieux.civ@mail.mil.

Where will I be located?

Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland

What is the appointment length?

This appointment is a 12-month 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.

What are the benefits?

You will receive a stipend to be determined by USAMRICD. Stipends are typically based on a participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location.

Other benefits may include the following:

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

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 into 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.

Qualifications

Applicant should be currently pursuing or completed a Bachelor's. Master's degree or PhD in a related discipline. Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Preferred skill-set and/or experience:

  • No specific skills are required; however, some familiarity with in vitro biochemical assays and/or small animal handling skills is encouraged.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
  • Degree: Currently pursuing a Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, or Doctoral Degree to be received by 12/31/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Overall GPA: 2.80