WRAIR - Optimization and Evaluation of mRNA Platform Technology Research Inernship

About the Opportunity

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). This research opportunity focuses on targeted gene design and bioinformatics to develop coding and noncoding sequence elements for stabilizing mRNAs for in‑vivo delivery. The mRNAs will express target antigens as vaccine candidates or deliver heavy and light chain antibodies as immunoprophylactic molecules or as mRNA replacement therapeutics.

Under the guidance of a mentor and as the selected candidate, you will learn how to apply algorithms to predict parts of coding and noncoding sequences for optimization. Designed mRNA transcripts will be produced by standard molecular biological techniques, including plasmid DNA isolation, PCR amplification of templates, and mRNA in‑vitro transcription reactions (IVT). You will gain experience using standard methods to purify mRNA molecules to homogeneity and evaluate them for quality.

The final mRNA products will be assessed in in‑vitro assays for expression levels and cellular localization, and you will evaluate mRNAs in vivo in mice to determine effectiveness. These studies will be used to identify basic features of mRNA transcripts that enhance stability and efficiency of translation.

Silver Spring, Maryland

Appointments are initially for one year with the option to extend the appointment for up to four additional years, contingent upon project needs and funding availability.

You will receive a stipend 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

• Earned a bachelor’s degree in bioengineering, biomedical engineering, biochemistry, structural biology, immunology, or other eligible STEM discipline within 24 months of the appointment start date.
• Highly competitive applicants will have education and/or experience in one or more of the following: biochemistry—buffer preparation and general purification methods for proteins; molecular biology techniques to isolate DNA and RNA; cell culture techniques such as sterile technique; basic skills in nucleic acid quantitation (gels and spectrophotometry).

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree:
  Bachelor’s degree received within the last 24 months.
• Disciplines:
  Engineering (Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering);
  Life Health and Medical Sciences

Brittany