The Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence (EACE) is the leading advocate for research and treatment of the Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) patients with extremity trauma and amputation. The Research & Surveillance Division of the EACE, specifically, conducts research studies to improve the function and quality of life for patients with traumatic extremity injuries.

EACE is offering an ORISE opportunity that will be housed at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC), the flagship of United States Military Medicine, in collaboration with the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. This opportunity will focus on musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. The EACE multidisciplinary research team has taken a comprehensive approach to understand the complex and multifactorial mechanisms by which Service members develop musculoskeletal disorders following extremity trauma. These efforts span the broad spectrum of science, from pre-clinical to clinical, and often assess a number of outcomes (e.g., biochemical, biomechanical, functional, imaging). As an ORISE participant under the guidance of a mentor, you will support and conduct research that will focus on the mechanistic understanding of the physiological pathways which drive tissue damage associated with musculoskeletal pain and joint degeneration secondary to extremity trauma. During your appointment, you will learn and research linking physiological pathways with the clinical manifestation of disease onset and chronicity/recurrence.

Appointment Length

This appointment is an 11-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.

Participant Benefits

Participants will receive a stipend to be determined by EACE. 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

Nature of Appointment

The participant will not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DOD, or any other office or agency. Instead, the participant will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.

Qualifications

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Experience in the fields of biomedical engineering, bioengineering, and/or physiology.
• Specific research background in the areas of extremity trauma (pre-clinical and clinical) and musculoskeletal health is highly desired.
• A track record of publication and excellent technical writing skills are preferred.

Education/Training: PhD from an accredited institution in biomedical engineering, bioengineering, physiology, biological sciences, or a related field.

Physical Capabilities: Long periods of standing and sitting.