AFRL Biochemistry Research Fellow

Organization
U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)
Reference Code
AFRL-711HPW-2026-0003
How to Apply

Click on Apply at the bottom of the opportunity to start your application.

Description

The Air Force Research Laboratory is offering a Biochemistry Research Fellow opportunity at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.

What will I be doing?

As an Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) participant, you will join a community of scientists and researchers in an effort to optimize collection methods and protocols for human biofluids. This project will be in support of the Air and Space Biosciences Division in the 711 Human Performance Wing at the Air Force Research Laboratory. You will participate in the utilization of human subject research protocols and the application of state-of-the-art technology to extract and analyze novel biofluids, such as dermal interstitial fluid (ISF). Your research activities will relate to the development of next-generation sensors for human health and performance assessment.

Why should I apply?

Under the guidance of a mentor, you will gain hands-on experience to complement your education and support your academic and professional goals. Along the way, you will engage in activities and research in several areas. These include, but are not limited to:

• Develop skills in identifying biomarkers of interest for human health and performance research
• Learn and apply novel protocols for biofluid collection, including the utilization of human subject research protocols
• Gain experience in facilitating analyses of collected biofluid samples, in conjunction with internal or third-party laboratories
• Enhance your understanding of biomarker data analysis, interpretation, and presentation of research findings
• Learn about the development of cutting-edge sensors for real-time health and performance monitoring

Where will I be located?

Dayton, Ohio

What is the anticipated start date?

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.

What is the appointment length? 

This appointment is a nine-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.

What are the provisions?

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

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

About AFRL 711HPW

The 711th Human Performance Wing (711 HPW), headquartered at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, is the first human-centric warfare wing to consolidate human performance research, education, and consultation under a single organization. Established under the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), the 711 HPW is comprised of the Airman Systems Directorate (RH) and the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine (USAFSAM). For more information about the Air Force Research Laboratory, please visit https://afresearchlab.com/.

About ORISE

This program, 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), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and DoD. Participants do not enter an employee/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 for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.  For more information, visit the ORISE Research Participation Program at the U.S. Department of Defense .

Qualifications

The qualified candidate will hold or be currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master’s degree in biochemistry, biology or related discipline. Degree holders must have earned their degree within 5 years of the appointment start date

Application Requirements

A complete application consists of:

• Zintellect Profile
• Educational and Employment History
• Essay Questions (goals, experiences, and skills relevant to the opportunity)
• Resume (PDF)
• Transcripts/Academic Records - Please upload a copy of a transcript for your current or most recent degree program that meets the disciplinary qualifications of the opportunity. Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
• One Recommendation. We encourage you to contact your recommender(s) as soon as you start your application to ensure they are able to complete the recommendation form and to let them know to expect a message from Zintellect. Recommenders will be asked to rate your scientific capabilities, personal characteristics, and describe how they know you. You can always log back in to your Zintellect account and check the status of your application.

If you have questions, send an email to AIRFORCE@orise.orau.gov. Please list the reference code of this opportunity [AFRL-711HPW-2026-0003] in the subject line of the email. Please understand that ORISE does not review applications or select applicants; selections are made by the sponsoring agency identified on this opportunity. All application materials should be submitted via the “Apply” button at the bottom of this opportunity listing.  Please do not send application materials to the email address above.

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Point of Contact
Leslie
Eligibility Requirements

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree received within the last 60 months or anticipated to be received by 12/31/2026 12:00:00 AM.
• Discipline(s):
  • Chemistry and Materials Sciences (12 )
  • Engineering (2 )
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (8 )
• Age: Must be 18 years of age

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