Cell Biologist

The 711th Human Performance Wing (711 HPW) is a unique combination of three units: the Airman Systems Directorate (RH), the US Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine (USAFSAM) and the Human Systems Integration Directorate (HP).  USAFSAM is the premier institute for research, education, and worldwide operational consultation in Aerospace Medicine. USAFSAM has guided the advancement of aerospace medicine and human performance from the beginnings of aviation through the onset of the space age and into the present, and is the oldest continually operating institution of its kind. It is also host to the largest aeromedical library in the world. For more information about the USAF School of Aerospace Medicine, please visit https://www.wpafb.af.mil/afrl/711hpw/USAFSAM/. 

The overarching goal of the Identification of Microbial Pathogens and Countermeasures/Therapeutics (IMPaCT) is to deliver tools to the Air Force for identifying any pathogen, anywhere, in any source from any specimen. The IMPaCT lab performs this mission by employing advanced molecular detection techniques such as next generation sequencing, synthetic oligonucleotide construction, and isothermal amplification alongside gold-standard techniques such as cell culture and real-time PCR. The specific goal for the project is to assess and compare multiple innovative approaches for detecting SARS-CoV-2 (the virus causing COVID-19) in multiple sample types and at multiple points across an infection. Through a multi-pronged test and evaluation design, this project seeks to rapidly deliver technologies that can increase the scale and speed of SARS-CoV-2 testing to enable an expeditious return to steady-state military operations.

The IMPaCT lab is seeking a cell biologist with an interest in mammalian cell culture and molecular biology. The participant will gain hands-on experience in cellular and molecular techniques including mammalian in vitro cell culture, next generation sequencing, synthetic oligonucleotide construction, isothermal amplification, and real-time PCR among others, along with theoretical knowledge in viral culture, test and evaluation experimental design, and scientific writing.

This appointment is a twelve 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.

Participants will receive a stipend to be determined by USAFSAM. Stipends are typically based on the participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location. Other benefits may include the following:

The participant will not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DOD, or any other office or agency. Instead, the participant will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.

While participants will not enter into 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.