Orthopedic Trauma Fellowship

The Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence (EACE) is offering a postdoctoral opportunity at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC) located in Bethesda, Maryland.

What will I be doing?

This Orthopedic Trauma Research Fellowship will be part of the EACE Regenerative Biosciences Laboratory, located within the Department of Surgery at USUHS and WRNMMC. As an Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) participant, you will join The EACE Regenerative Biosciences Laboratory in the development and evaluation of next generation technologies and approaches for the treatment of combat related orthopedic trauma. In particular, contemporary cell / molecular biology in vitro approaches as well as clinically relevant small and large animal models of orthopedic trauma are utilized to generate the knowledge required to translate promising technologies into clinical practice.

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:

• Exposure to various aspects of pre-clinical research through participation in ongoing collaborative research projects
• Data collection appropriate to existing research protocol(s)
• Processing, analyzing, and interpreting collected data; descriptive and inferential statistical analyses
• Preparation of abstracts for professional conferences and/or manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals

What is the appointment length?

EACE is prepared to make appointments immediately, pending the review of applications and the selection of a candidate. This appointment is a 12-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 EACE. Stipends are typically based on a 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 EACE

The Extremity Trauma & Amputation Center of Excellence (EACE) is a unique organization within the DoD consisting of teams of researchers embedded at the point of care within multiple Military Treatment Facilities across the nation. In line with the congressionally directed mission of the EACE, the research efforts undertaken focus on the mitigation, treatment and rehabilitation of traumatic extremity injuries and amputations with a specific focus on translating their findings into clinical practice to improve the care of injured Service Members and Veterans. To learn more, visit: https://www.health.mil/About-MHS/OASDHA/HSPO/EACE.  

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.

Qualifications

The qualified candidate will have completed a PhD from an accredited institution in bioengineering, biomedical engineering, immunology, cell / molecular biology, physiology, or a related field within the last five years.

Highly competitive applicants will have education and/or experience in one or more of the following:

• Experience in the fields of regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, cell / molecular biology, immunology, biomaterials, physiology, or related fields.
• Proficiency with contemporary biomedical wet lab methodology and small and/or large animal models are also required.
• Specific research background in the area of extremity trauma
• Publication and excellent technical writing skills are preferred
• Long periods of standing and sitting.
• Experience in research animal handling.                                      

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 STEM-WORKFORCE@orise.orau.gov. Please list the reference code of this opportunity [EACE-2025-0006] 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.

Connect with ORISE...on the GO! Download the new ORISE GO mobile app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to help you stay engaged, connected, and informed during your ORISE experience and beyond!