FDA Research - Dengue Neutralization Assay

How to Apply

To submit your application, scroll to the bottom of this opportunity and click APPLY. The application must include:

• An application form
• Transcripts (link to detailed information)
• A current resume or CV
• One educational or professional recommendation

All documents must be in English or include an official English translation. For questions, email ORISE.FDA.CBER with reference code FDA-CBER-. Final date to receive applications is 6/26/2026 3:00 PM Eastern Time Zone. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Open to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, this research fellowship is located at the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Silver Spring, Maryland.

Fellows will work with the Office of Vaccines Research and Review (OVRR) in the Division of Viral Products (DVP) to develop and apply methods for evaluating viral vaccines. The focus is on a novel neutralization assay for serotype‑specific neutralizing antibodies against the four Dengue virus serotypes.

• Master viral immunology and vaccine development principles.
• Design and optimize neutralization assays for Dengue virus serotypes.
• Evaluate vaccine potency, durability, cross‑platform performance, and safety using rigorous laboratory methods.
• Apply advanced virology techniques and state‑of‑the‑art technologies such as flow cytometry and microscopy in high‑containment settings.
• Analyze, interpret, and communicate complex immunological data with scientific rigor.
• Collaborate within multidisciplinary research teams to support regulatory science and public health decision‑making.

Mentor:
Tony Wang (Tony.

Wang.gov).

• Start date:
  
  June 1, 2026 (flexible).
• Length:
  Two years, renewable upon recommendation and funding.
• Level: Full time.
• Stipend:
  Monthly, commensurate with educational level and experience.

• Citizenship: U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
• Degree:
  Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral in a relevant field received within the last 60 months or anticipated by 6/30/2026.
• Discipline:
  Life Health and Medical Sciences, including Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Immunology, Microbiology, Structural Biology, and Virology.

Preferred candidates have a strong background in virology, immunology, or related laboratory science and demonstrate experience with viral assays, flow cytometry, and microscopy. Candidates should have excellent analytical, communication, and teamwork skills.

Participants must complete FDA required training and sign a training agreement within 30 days of start date. Participants are not FDA employees and have no employment‑related benefits. Background investigation by the Office of Personnel Management is required.