Recombinant Protein Antigen Production

USAMRIID's reputation has been built over the years by numerous scientists and technical staff working to protect both military personnel and civilians from the threat of infectious diseases. The Institute participates in support of emerging disease investigations, working alongside colleagues from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization. As a reference laboratory for the Department of Defense, USAMRIID sets the standard for identification of biological agents. The Institute's workforce represents some of the top infectious disease and biological defense experts in the Nation—indeed, in the world. This opportunity is located in Frederick, MD. For more information, please visit https://www.usamriid.army.mil/.

This experience will broaden the participant’s knowledge and skill sets in the fields of molecular biology, cell biology, immunology, and biochemistry. This opportunity includes projects that are based on the design, production, purification and characterization of recombinant protein antigens for immunological in vivo and in vitro assessment as vaccines against botulinum neurotoxins. The participant will receive hands-on training on Western blot analysis, proficiency in polymerase chain reaction (PCR), common cloning techniques, plasmid DNA isolation, DNA sequencing, yeast transformation, recombinant protein expression protocols and protein gel.

An ORISE appointment period can be a short-term (less than 2 weeks), summer (10-12 weeks), or yearlong appointment. Faculty appointments are generally for 10-12 weeks during the summer, but appointments during the academic year are also available. Appointments may be extended depending on funding availability, project assignment, program rules, and availability of the participant.

Participants will receive a stipend to be determined by USAMRIID. Stipends are typically based on the participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location. Other benefits may include the following:

The participant will not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DOD, or any other office or agency. Instead, the participant will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.

While participants will not enter into an employment relationship with DOD or any other agency, this opportunity will require a suitability investigation/background investigation. Any offer made is considered tentative pending favorable outcome of the investigation.

Applicants wishing to acquire laboratory experience in pursuing a Bachelor's degree would be preferable. Basic laboratory skills such as pipetting, preparation of microbial media, experience in using stoichiometric methods to prepare solutions, cell culturing and basic knowledge of instrumentation (PCR thermal cycler, electronic balances, spectrophotometers etc.) is preferable. Experience in the set up of a cell or microbiology laboratory is highly desirable. Operation of a 2-15 liter bioreactor is also highly desirable.