*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis.

USGS Office/Lab and Location: A research opportunity is currently available with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Eastern Ecological Science Center located in Laurel, Maryland.

The USGS mission is to monitor, analyze, and predict current and evolving dynamics of complex human and natural Earth-system interactions and to deliver actionable intelligence at scales and timeframes relevant to decision makers. As the Nation's largest water, earth, and biological science and civilian mapping agency, USGS collects, monitors, analyzes, and provides science about natural resource conditions, issues, and problems. 

Research Project: The incursion of a novel strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza into the United State since the winter of 2021/2022 has had large scale consequences for the health and populations of many wild bird species. While numerous species have been found to mount antibody responses after exposure to this viral threat, little is known about the sub-clinical impacts of infection. This project will seek to analyze numerous immune health assays from plasma previously collected across a wide range of avian species of known avian influenza status and seek to identify differences in immune health assays as a function of current or previous AIV infection.

Learning Objectives: You will learn methods for analysis of plasma-based biomarkers of avian health and will gain experience with analysis of samples and the collected data. You will also participate in data presentation and manuscript preparation, as time allows. You will gain valuable laboratory and quality control skills, and learn appropriate methods for statistical analyses of these types of data. You will also have the opportunity to train and develop your scientific writing skills.

Mentor: The mentor for this opportunity is Natalie Karouna-Renier (nkarouna@usgs.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s). 

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: August 17, 2026. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.

Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for one year and six months, but may be renewed upon recommendation of DOI and is contingent on the availability of funds.

Level of Participation: The appointment is full time.

Participant Stipend: Stipend rates may vary based on numerous factors, including opportunity, location, education, and experience. If you are interviewed, you can inquire about the exact stipend rate at that time and if selected, your appointment offer will include the monthly stipend rate.

Citizenship Requirements: This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) only.

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 USGS. Participants do not become employees of USGS, 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: If you have questions about the application process please email USGS@orau.org  and include the reference code for this opportunity.

Qualifications

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree in the one of the relevant fields. 

Point of Contact

Rachel

Eligibility Requirements

• Citizenship: LPR or U.S. Citizen
• Degree: Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, or Doctoral Degree.