WRAIR - Entomology Post Bachelor's Internship

How to Apply

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MRDC-WRAIR-

The Department of Defense (DoD) is offering a post‑bachelor's internship at the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command - Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (USAMRDC WRAIR).

As the selected candidate, you will participate directly with researchers who are part of the WRAIR Entomology Department team. The department focuses on emerging threats from arthropod‑borne disease vectors such as mosquitoes and ticks.

Under the guidance of a mentor, you will gain hands‑on experience to support your academic and professional goals. Activities include:

• Learning all aspects of current research including laboratory protocols, data analysis, and conducting literature reviews.
• Processing samples collected during bio‑surveillance operations (mosquitoes, ticks, etc.) for DNA extraction, sequencing, and sequence analysis.
• Conducting literature reviews to compile information for knowledge product development (Evaluation of Environmental Exposures and Threats (E3T) reports and Walter Reed Arthropod Intelligence Threat Hub (WRAITH)).
• Engaging in microscopy training to identify arthropods using morphological keys.
• Networking with all members of the Entomology team to learn about additional research efforts.
• Gaining experience in laboratory techniques for arthropod processing, including sample collection, preservation, and preparation for molecular analysis, DNA extraction, and sequencing procedures.
• Learning the principles of scientific communication and data interpretation.

Silver Spring, Maryland

October 1, 2025. WRAIR is ready to make appointments immediately. Exact start dates will be determined at the time of selection and in coordination with the selected candidate. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis and internships or fellowships will be filled as qualified candidates are identified.

This appointment is a seven‑month research appointment, with the possibility for renewal for additional periods. Appointments may be extended depending on funding availability, project assignment, program rules, and availability of the participant.

You will receive a stipend to be determined by WRAIR. Stipends are typically based on a participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location. Other provisions may include:

• Health Insurance Supplement (participants are eligible to purchase health insurance through ORISE)
• Relocation Allowance
• Training and Travel Allowance

The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) aims to conduct biomedical research responsive to Department of Defense and U.S. Army requirements and deliver lifesaving products including knowledge, technology, and medical material that sustain the combat effectiveness of the warfighter. WRAIR provides unique research capabilities and innovative medical solutions to a range of Force Health Protection and Readiness challenges currently facing U.S. Service Members, and threats anticipated during future operations.

Ongoing efforts include identifying and treating traumatic brain injury and understanding and mitigating the deleterious effects of repeated exposures to blast.

ORISE is administered by Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE). Participants do not enter an employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DoD, or any other office or agency. Instead, you will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.

Proof of health insurance is required. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE. For more information, visit the ORISE Research Participation Program at the U.S. Department of Defense.

The qualified candidate will have a bachelor’s degree in entomology, microbiology, artificial intelligence, scientific computing, or another…