Overview

*Applications may be reviewed on a rolling-basis and this posting could close before the deadline. Click here for information about the selection process.

EPA Office/Lab and Location: Two research opportunities are available at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the Office of Water (OW), Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds (OWOW), Oceans and Coastal Management Branch (OCMB) located in Washington, DC.

Research Project: The Oceans and Coastal Management Branch serves as the primary EPA office working on ocean and coastal issues for the Agency. The branch leads ocean and coastal programs associated with coral reefs, ocean acidification, climate adaptation, vessel pollution, and coastal wetlands. More specifically, our programs are responsible for the development of polices, guidance, regulations, and for the coordination and implementation of efforts to protect ocean and coastal resources. To accomplish these efforts the branch works closely with all of EPA’s HQ Program Offices, the 10 EPA Regional Offices, and the Agency’s partners in states, tribes, and local communities.

Learning Objectives: This research opportunity will provide the research participant with excellent exposure to a broad range of scientific, legal, and policy issues pertaining to ocean and coastal issues. Under the guidance of a mentor, the research participant will have an opportunity to learn about the role of international, federal, state and local governments in ocean and coastal management and about the interaction between the various levels of government and the private sector on these issues. Specifically, this project provides an opportunity to research and analyze data associated with ocean and coastal pollution.

Mentor(s): The mentor for these opportunities is Katherine Weiler (weiler.katherine@epa.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s).

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: ~Winter 2020 / 2021.  All start dates are flexible and vary depending on numerous factors. Click here for detailed information about start dates.

Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for one year and may be renewed up to three additional years upon EPA recommendation and subject to availability of funding.

Level of Participation: The appointment is full-time.

Participant Stipend: The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. At this time, master’s degree stipends are ~$59,534 per year. Click here for detailed information about full-time stipends.

EPA Security Clearance: Completion of a successful background investigation by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is required for an applicant to be on-boarded at EPA.

ORISE Information: This program, administered by 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 EPA. Participants do not become employees of EPA, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.

Questions: Please see the FAQ section of our website. After reading, if you have additional questions about the application process please email EPArpp@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.