Research Opportunity in Blood Components Safety
*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis, and this opportunity will remain open until a qualified candidate is identified.
A research opportunity is currently available in the Office of Blood Research and Review (OBRR) at the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER), Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Silver Spring, Maryland.
The laboratory's research focus is on identifying and evaluating pathogen inactivation methods relevant to stored blood and blood components' safety. The selected participant will receive training in the following aspects of the research and through this training, the participant will learn how the nation's blood supply can be protected from pathogens. Training will include:
- Screening novel methods and reagents for pathogen inactivation in blood and blood components (platelets, red blood cells and plasma).
- Evaluating the effect of such treatments on the survival and function of platelets and red blood cells and plasma.
- Evaluation of the treated plasma for the activities of coagulation factors.
- Mitigating the adverse effects (if any) of the treatments
- Developing biomarkers of product quality following pathogen inactivation treatments.
Anticipated Appointment Start Date: October 2021; start date is flexible
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 FDA. The initial appointment is for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of FDA 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 FDA in the Silver Spring, Maryland, area. Participants do not become employees of FDA, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits.
If you have questions, send an email to ORISE.FDA.CBER@orau.org. Please include the reference code for this opportunity (FDA-CBER-2021-0039) in your email.