Separation Scientist: USACE ERDC Construction Engineering Research Laboratory - Postgraduate

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL) develops and infuses innovative technologies to support the soldier and the environment. Cutting edge basic and applied research are funded by Department of Defense to address the primary objectives and missions of the U.S. Army. 

ERDC-CERL directs its research efforts toward increasing the Army’s ability to more efficiently design, construct, operate and maintain its installations and contingency bases and to ensure environmental quality and safety at a reduced life-cycle cost. Excellent facilities support the Army’s training, readiness, mobilization and sustainability missions. Adequate infrastructure and realistic training lands are critical assets to installations in carrying out their military missions. Efficient contingency bases, which minimize the use of external resources and the generation of waste and enhance relations with local communities, are critical for successful deployments in all situations—from disaster response and humanitarian assistance to stability operations and conflicts.

What will I be doing?

Under the guidance of mentors, you will have the opportunity to research environmental and bioanalytical separations using multiple chromatographic techniques for identification and quantification of sample composition. Initial efforts will focus primarily on analysis and understanding of in-house constructed protein molecules, where length and sequence are of great interest. A second focus will include the collection and analysis of volatile chemicals from soils under different environmental conditions, locations, and times. The suite of identified chemicals emitted from a soil may provide unique information on historical events, overall health, and current state.  You will gain additional experience and knowledge in separation science, specifically testing gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS) and liquid chromatography (LC). 

Where will I be located? Champaign, Illinois

What is the anticipated start date?

 ERDC-CERL is ready to make an appointment immediately. Exact start date will be determined at the time of selection and in coordination with the selected candidate.  

What is the length of the appointment? 

This ORISE opportunity is a full-time twelve-month appointment.  Appointments may be extended depending on funding availability, project assignment, program rules, and availability of the participant.

What are the benefits? 

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

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

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 into 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.