Genetics and Malaria Parasite Biology Research Fellowship

The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) is a premier research institution dedicated to soldier and world health. WRAIR is an international leader in science and technology, aiming to conduct biomedical research that is responsive to the Department of Defense and U.S. Army requirements and delivers lifesaving products, including knowledge, technology, and medical material that sustain the combat effectiveness of the warfighter. The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research carries out research on a wide array of infectious diseases, including emerging infectious diseases, HIV, malaria, and other infectious pathogens, and on diverse aspects of brain and behavioral health, including sleep, traumatic brain injury prevention/treatment, and psychological resilience.

The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) is offering an ORISE learning opportunity in which an ORISE participant will partake in research using a variety of molecular biology assays and bioinformatic tools to analyze malaria parasite genomes to select genetically diverse strains from different geographic areas to use for controlled human malaria infection (CHMI) to provide support to anti-malaria drugs and vaccines testing. The participant will collaborate extensively with internal and external researchers on the culture adaptation and cloning of field malaria parasite strains. During this opportunity, the participant will gain experience that will significantly enhance their future STEM career as they learn more about cultures of malaria parasites at different stages of development under cGMP conditions, microsatellite analysis, targeted sequencing, SNP analysis, and WGS analysis. Furthermore, the participant will conduct analyses using the most state-of-the-art software and bioinformatics tools, such as DNASTAR’s Genomics Suite and GeneMapper. Under the guidance of a mentor, the participant will help establish a fundamental understanding of translational, military-relevant scientific research and be challenged to develop new and innovative methods for analyzing malaria parasite DNA.

This appointment is a 12-month research appointment, with the possibility to be renewed for additional research periods. 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 WRAIR. 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.

An ideal candidate will have: