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EPA Geographic Data Analysis Fellowship

*Applications may be reviewed on a rolling-basis and this posting could close before the deadline. Click here for information about the selection process.

EPA Office/Lab and LocationA research opportunity is available at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Office of Research and Development (ORD), Center for Public Health Environmental Assessment (CPHEA), Public Health and Environmental Systems Division (PHESD), Exposure Indicators Branch (EIB) located in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

Research Project: This research project seeks to (1) advance the science for location identification of chemical contaminants using environmental variables and to (2) identify novel methods to visualize geographic data for environmental applications. We are specifically interested in identifying areas at a fine spatial scale (e.g., Census Tract, Census Block, neighborhood) where humans could potentially be exposed to EPA high priority chemicals (such as lead or perfluorinated compounds). For these contaminants that are ubiquitous in the environment, it would also be of great interest to identify specific sources and exposure pathways that may be impacting human health for a given geographic area. This project will rely on existing data sources, but could include developing new methodologies and approaches for combining or mining data.

Under EPA mentorship, the research participant may:

  • Evaluate, interpret and compile existing datasets to derive location-specific information on chemicals in the environment
  • Conduct novel statistical and spatial analyses
  • Contribute to design of field studies to fill critical data gaps
  • Collaborate with researchers within and outside the Office of Research and Development (ORD)
  • Explore and independently pursue potential research efforts consistent with the project description
  • Present and publish research methods and results
  • Participate in scientific seminars, webinars, and other opportunities for networking

Learning Objectives: The research participant will have the opportunity to learn through interactions with individuals and teams working on other cross-cutting human/environment projects at PHESD and other EPA divisions. With guidance from the mentor, the research participant will have latitude in exercising independent initiative and judgment in the research commensurate with the level of training. The research participant will have the opportunity to collaborate with EPA Regions, researchers, states, and local stakeholders.

The research participant will also have the opportunity to attend research team meetings and be involved in all aspects of the research. This may include active engagement with stakeholders regarding applications of the research. There will be opportunities to develop and conduct projects within the overall research program, and to publish and present research.

Mentor(s): The mentor for this opportunity is Lindsay Stanek (Stanek.Lindsay@epa.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s).

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: Fall 2020. All start dates are flexible and vary depending on numerous factors. Click here for detailed information about start dates.

Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for one year and may be renewed up to three or four additional years upon EPA recommendation and subject to availability of funding.

Level of Participation: The appointment is full-time.

Participant Stipend: The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. Click here for detailed information about full-time stipends.

EPA Security Clearance: Completion of a successful background investigation by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is required for an applicant to be on-boarded at EPA.

ORISE Information: This program, administered by 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 EPA. Participants do not become employees of EPA, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.

Questions: Please see the FAQ section of our website. After reading, if you have additional questions about the application process please email EPArpp@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.