CDC Clinical Chemistry Internship
*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis.
Multiple research opportunities are available with the Division of Laboratory Sciences (DLS) of the National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is one of the major operation components of the Department of Health and Human Services. CDC works to protect America from health, safety and security threats, both foreign and in the U.S. Whether diseases start at home or abroad, are chronic or acute, curable or preventable, human error or deliberate attack, CDC fights disease and supports communities and citizens to do the same.
DLS conducts research and provides laboratory support that improves the detection, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of environmental, tobacco-related, nutritional, newborn, selected chronic and selected infectious diseases. Within DLS, the Protein Biomarker and Lipids Reference Laboratories in the Clinical Chemistry Branch supports this through performing research on biomarkers to detect human exposure to environmental chemicals and to diagnose and treat chronic diseases, as well as through the Clinical Harmonization program to improve the quality and reliability of diagnostic tests for priority clinical analytes.
This internship will provide the opportunity to obtain hands-on experience in human exposure research and laboratory medicine. This includes operating state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and procedures, performing quality assurance tasks, processing and evaluating complex laboratory data.
Under the guidance of a mentor, training opportunities for the participant may include:
- Preparation of biological samples to quantify biomarkers of human exposure or establish reference values according to established laboratory procedures
- Operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, and automated liquid handling instrumentation
- Data processing and analysis using complex software and data evaluation procedures
- Develop written documentation that clearly and accurately documents laboratory procedures, instrument operation, experimental results, troubleshooting and remedial actions
- Perform activities in compliance with policies and regulations such as those outlined in the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA) or International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards
Anticipated Appointment Start Date: as soon as a qualified candidate is identified; 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 CDC. The initial appointment can be up to one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of CDC 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 CDC in the Atlanta, Georgia, area. Participants do not become employees of CDC, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits.
If you have questions, send an email to ORISE.CDC.NCEH@orau.org. Please include the reference code (CDC-DLS-2021-0185) for this opportunity in your email.