FBI Counterterrorism and Forensic Science Research Unit; CFSRU

Role Overview

As a participant in the Counter terrorism and Forensic Science Research Unit (CFSRU) Visiting Scientist Program (VSP), you will enhance your professional development by engaging in forensic research initiatives using state‑of‑the‑art equipment under the mentorship of CFSRU scientists. The VSP exposes you to a high‑security government research environment and offers opportunities to conduct research in areas 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

• Conducting searches of scientific literature
• Designing experimental plans
• Conducting field tests
• Performing analytical laboratory analyses
• Analyzing instrumental data / documenting results
• Preparing and presenting research findings to diverse audiences, both orally and in writing

• Be a U.S. citizen.
• Must have completed the requirements for a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD within the last five years, or have an academic background and experience in a relevant field seeking to gain new knowledge/experience; the degree must be completed before the start date.
• Undergo an extensive FBI background investigation and meet suitability criteria.

• Chemistry and Materials Sciences
  • Analytical Chemistry
  • Bio‑inorganic Chemistry
  • Bio‑organic Chemistry
  • Biophysical Chemistry
  • Chemistry (General)
  • Inorganic Chemistry
  • Materials Sciences
  • Physical Chemistry
  • Polymer Chemistry
  • 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
• Age:
  Must be 18 years of age

Quantico, Virginia

Participants receive a stipend to support living and other expenses during the appointment. Stipend rates are determined by CFSRU officials and are based on academic and professional background. A one‑time relocation expense of $2,000 may be reimbursed if the applicant’s address is more than 50 miles from Quantico. A travel allowance of $5,000 per appointment year covers travel-related expenses for scientific and professional development activities.

The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility to extend up to an additional three years for BS and MS level participants and four years for PhD level participants, subject to eligibility and availability of the participant and their mentor. The appointment is full time during standard business hours; part‑time appointments may be considered under special circumstances.

The appointment begins with a one‑year term and may be extended based on eligibility and availability. The participant will not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DOE, FBI, CFSRU, or any other office or agency. Instead, the participant will be affiliated with ORISE for administration through the ORISE letter of appointment and Terms of Appointment.

Daphne

This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens.