CDC COVID-19 Molecular Pathology Fellowship
*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis.
A research opportunity is currently available in the Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch (IDPB) within the National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia.
IDPB is the primary CDC program to provide tissue-based diagnosis of infectious diseases by conducting laboratory studies including histopathologic and molecular evaluation of fixed tissue specimens. IDPB has an ongoing and important role in the response to outbreaks and case investigations of public health importance and is currently involved in the COVID-19 response efforts.
IDPB is seeking a participant to join the Molecular Pathology Team. The participant will be trained to test the tissue specimens from the suspect or confirmed COVID-19 cases submitted to IDPB for diagnostic testing.
The participant will gain experience by receiving training and helping in specialized molecular pathology techniques/assays, including:
- RNA extraction from formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded tissues using manual and automated tissue extractions
- Tissue-based real-time and conventional RT-PCR assays
- In-situ hybridization (ISH) assays
- Sectioning of paraffin-embedded tissue blocks for PCR and ISH
- Various sequencing techniques, including pyrosequencing and NGS
- Training to use various sequence analysis software
- To maintain laboratory records of experiments and results and preparing standard operating protocols
- To prepare inventories for specimens, ordering/maintenance of supplies
- To perform review of literature and assist in data compilation and preparation of manuscripts
The training will be provided under the guidance of the Molecular Pathology Team Lead. In addition, the participant will also have opportunities to attend IDPB case review sessions, CDC seminars, training courses and DHCPP seminars to enhance knowledge in microbiology/biological sciences and public health.
This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and CDC. The initial appointment can be up to one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of CDC contingent on the availability of funds. The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. The appointment is full-time at CDC in the Atlanta, Georgia, area. Participants do not become employees of CDC, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits.
Qualifications
The qualified candidate should have received a bachelor's or master's degree in one of the relevant fields. Degree must have been received within five years of the appointment start date.
If you have questions, send an email to ORISE.CDC.NCEZID@orau.org. Please include the reference code for this opportunity (CDC-IDPB-2020-0139) in your email.