FBI Counterterrorism and Forensic Science Research Unit; CFSRU

How to Apply

Click on Apply below to start your application.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

FBI-CFSRU-2025

The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Counter terrorism and Forensic Science Research Unit’s (CFSRU) provides technical leadership for the FBI as well as for other law enforcement and intelligence agencies through applied research and development.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

As a participant with the Counter terrorism and Forensic Science Research Unit (CFSRU) Visiting Scientist Program (VSP), you will enhance your professional development and increase your research capabilities by participating in forensic research initiatives utilizing state‑of‑the‑art equipment under the mentorship of CFSRU scientists. The VSP will expose you to a research environment in a high‑security government facility and provide an opportunity to perform research in areas of interest unique to law enforcement and national security.

• Human identification
• Detection of bio‑threat agents
• Detection of explosives and drugs
• Characterization and comparison of forensic materials
• Elemental analysis of trace evidence
• Mass spectrometry applications to chemical and biological analyses, including IRMS
• Development of instrumental methods
• Evaluation of field portable instrumentation
• Advancement of forensic chemistry, specifically in toxicology and trace volatiles
• Advancement of techniques for imaging and visualization

• Conduct literature searches
• Design experimental plans
• Conduct field tests
• Perform analytical laboratory analyses
• Analyze instrumental data / document results
• Prepare and present research findings to diverse audiences, both orally and in writing

Under the guidance of a mentor, you will perform sophisticated laboratory techniques using emerging technologies, judge the completeness and accuracy of research results, perform statistical analyses, and prepare written manuscripts for FBI review and publication in peer‑reviewed journals. Release of any information acquired during participation is at the sole discretion of the FBI.

Quantico, Virginia

• Stipend during the appointment, rates based on academic and professional background
• One‑time dislocation expense of $2,000 (if relocated more than 50 miles from current address)
• Travel allowance of $5,000 per appointment year for travel‑related expenses to scientific and professional development activities
• Initial appointment one year with the opportunity to extend up to 3 additional years for BS and MS level, and up to 4 years for PhD level based on eligibility and availability of the participant and their mentor
• Full‑time appointment during standard business hours; part‑time appointments may be considered under special circumstances

This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens.

For more information about the Visiting Scientist Program, visit https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./undergrad

The participant will not enter into an employee/employer relationship but will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE letter of appointment and Terms of Appointment.

• U.S. citizenship
• Completion of degree requirements (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD) within last 5 years, or if more than 5 years, demonstration of relevant academic background and experience with a desire to expand career opportunities
• Undergo extensive FBI background investigation and meet suitability criteria
• Strong academic record, motivation, and collaboration skills (recommended by two academic or professional recommendations)

Chemistry and Materials Sciences (including Analytical, Bio‑inorganic, Bio‑organic, Biophysical, General, Inorganic, Materials, Physical, Polymer, and Theoretical Chemistry). Computer, Information and Data Sciences, Earth and Geosciences, Engineering, Environmental and Marine Sciences, Life Health and Medical Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics, Physics, Social and Behavioral Sciences.

Daphne – email: FBIrpp. Please include the reference code for this opportunity in your email.