EPA Agriculture Pollution and Water Quality Internship

*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 Location: A research opportunity is available at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Region 3 Office, Water Division located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Research Project: Under the guidance of a mentor, the selected participant will: 1) conduct research on state animal agriculture regulatory and voluntary programs for effectiveness in reducing agricultural nutrient and sediment pollution in the Chesapeake Bay watershed; 2) conduct data searches for information on animal agriculture program implementation from state environmental and agricultural agencies and local partners, such as the county conservation districts. 

Learning Objectives: The participant will develop knowledge in the STEM fields of environmental science, natural resource management, agricultural sciences (agroecology, agronomy, livestock management), and soil sciences. The participant will learn about environmental impacts of farming on drinking water, local streams, and the Chesapeake Bay; agricultural practices that reduce pollution; Federal and state programs and funding to reduce agricultural pollution; and technical network of local partners assisting farmers in reducing pollution.

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

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: November 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 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. The annual stipend will be up to $60,000. 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.