WRAIR - Entomology Post Bachelor's Internship

Overview

The Department of Defense (DoD) is offering a post bachelor’s internship at the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (USAMRDC WRAIR).

• As the selected candidate, you will participate directly with researchers who are part of the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) Entomology Department team. The Entomology Department focuses on emerging threats from arthropod-borne disease vectors such as mosquitoes and ticks.
• Learn all aspects of current research including laboratory protocols, data analysis, and conducting literature reviews.
• Process samples collected during bio-surveillance operations (e.g., mosquitoes, ticks) to include DNA extraction, sequencing and sequence analysis.
• Conduct literature reviews to compile information and data in support of knowledge product development (Evaluation of Environmental Exposures and Threats (E3T) reports and Walter Reed Arthropod Intelligence Threat Hub (WRAITH)).
• Engage in microscopy training to identify arthropods using morphological keys.
• Network with all members of the Entomology team to learn about additional research efforts.
• Gain experience in standard laboratory techniques for arthropod processing, including sample collection, preservation, and preparation for molecular analysis, DNA extraction and sequencing procedures.
• Learn the principles of scientific communication and data interpretation.

Silver Spring, Maryland

October 1, 2025. Start dates will be determined at the time of selection in coordination with the chosen candidate. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis and internships or fellowships will be filled as qualified candidates are identified.

This appointment is a seven-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 participant availability.

• Stipend to be determined by WRAIR. 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

The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) aims to conduct biomedical research that is responsive to Department of Defense and U.S. Army requirements and delivers lifesaving products including knowledge, technology and medical material that sustain the combat effectiveness of the warfighter. WRAIR provides unique research capabilities and innovative medical solutions to a range of Force Health Protection and Readiness challenges currently facing U.S. Service Members, along with threats anticipated during future operations.

These research opportunities include ongoing efforts to identify and treat traumatic brain injury as well as to understand and mitigate the deleterious effects of repeated exposures to blast.

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.

The qualified candidate will have a bachelor’s degree in entomology, microbiology, artificial intelligence, scientific computing, or other eligible discipline. Degree must have been received within 24 months of the appointment start date.

• Understanding of scientific research.
• Experience using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools.
• Strong interest in science communication.

A complete application consists of:

• Zintellect…