Summer Internship Opportunity Researching Oyster Disease in Beautiful Coastal Alabama

Jessica L. Jones, Ph.D.
Research Microbiologist
FDA, Gulf Coast Seafood Laboratory
Dauphin Island, Alabama
251-406-8136


Summer Internships Available- 2014
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Gulf Coast Seafood Laboratory
Dauphin Island, AL

Three positions are currently available for 10- to 12- week internships supporting research at the FDA Gulf Coast Seafood Laboratory (GCSL)/Division of Seafood Science and Technology, Dauphin Island, AL. This Division is within the Office of Food Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN).

Map of Dauphin Island Alabam

The participants will assist senior scientists in planning and conducting studies and related activities in support of the FDA’s mission. Responsibilities will include laboratory science in microbiology, molecular biology and/or chemical analysis, such as conventional microbiological analyses, real-time PCR, reverse transcription- PCR, and whole genome sequencing of pathogenic bacteria or viruses. The projects will require a practical knowledge of the basic theories and practices of the scientific area supported as well as some resourcefulness, initiative, and independent judgment. The ideal applicant will have completed a Bachelor’s or Master’s level degree program. Applicants with a Doctorate’s degree will not be considered.

Research will be performed in the development and application of microbiological and molecular assays to address the occurrence of hazards in seafood. Three projects will be supported by awardees of the internships: (1) investigation into the relationship between histamine formation (the main causative agent in scombrotoxin fish poisoning) and histamine-producing bacteria using rapid molecular based methods, (2) determination of variability in norovirus concentrations between individual oysters, and (3) identification of the Vibrio parahaemolyticus O4:K12 outbreak strain from environmental samples from the northeastern US.

Applications will be accepted until April 11, 2014 for the internships starting in mid- to late- May, 2014. Start and end dates are flexible. To apply, please send CV/resume and two letters of reference to Dr. William Burkhardt (William.Burkhardt@fda.hhs.gov). If you are selected for the internship, college transcripts (official or unofficial) and proof of health insurance will be required.

Stipend: $450/ week + relocation assistance (up to $250)