Funder: NRC Research Associateship Programs
Due Dates: May 1, 2025
Funding Amounts: Base stipend $63,800 with $2,000 travel allowance; $5,000 supplement for doctorates in Engineering & Computer Science; experience-based supplements available.
Summary: Fellowship supporting research on novel chlorine dioxide technologies for sterilization, disinfection, water purification, food preservation, and textile protection at the U.S. Army CCDC Soldier Center.
Key Information: Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents; postdoctoral and senior researchers eligible; relocation and health insurance benefits included.
Description
This fellowship opportunity supports research on novel chlorine dioxide technologies at the U.S. Army CCDC Soldier Center in Natick, MA. The research focuses on effector-driven oxidation-reduction reactions involving electron transfer and reactive intermediates that occur on-site, at-will, and near neutral pH without electrical power or flames. These chemical processes have been developed into various practical embodiments, including:
- Novel Chemical Combination: Used during the Ebola crisis for disinfection.
- D-FEND ALL: Produces chlorine dioxide to kill microbes and bacterial spores (including surrogates for Anthrax spores) on textiles, protective garments, and equipment; also disinfects graywater and renders potable water.
- Portable Chemical Sterilizer (PCS): A lightweight, energy-independent plastic suitcase that sterilizes surgical instruments or disinfects fresh produce.
- D-FENS: A disinfectant sprayer producing chlorine dioxide on-site in a reusable spray bottle for sanitizing surfaces in medical units, kitchens, textiles, shelters, showers, and latrines.
- Compartment of Defense (CoD): Generates low levels of chlorine dioxide in containers to extend fresh produce shelf-life and prevent mold on textiles and parachute components during storage.
The research has led to numerous patents, peer-reviewed publications, technology transfers, and awards. The goal is to deepen understanding of the complex reaction kinetics and mechanisms to exploit these technologies for chemical and biological defense, textiles, water disinfection, and other Army applications.
Due Dates
- Application Deadline: May 1, 2025 (5 PM ET)
Funding Amount
- Base stipend: $63,800 per year
- Travel allowance: $2,000 per year
- $5,000 supplement for doctorates in Engineering & Computer Science
- Additional experience-based stipend supplements for postdoctoral and senior researchers
- Relocation assistance available for awardees moving more than 50 miles
- Group health insurance available for awardees and dependents
Eligibility
- Citizenship: U.S. citizens and permanent residents only
- Applicant Level: Postdoctoral researchers (doctorate earned less than 5 years ago) and senior researchers (doctorate earned at least 5 years ago or permanent appointment with significant research experience)
- Must not have current or recent prior affiliation with the sponsoring agency that disqualifies eligibility (e.g., current employment or previous postdoctoral fellowship at the agency)
- Applicants must have completed all degree requirements before starting tenure
- Letters of recommendation required; postdoctoral applicants must include their dissertation adviser
Application Process
- Identify the research opportunity and contact the Research Adviser (Christopher J Doona: christopher.j.doona.civ@army.mil, 508-206-3970) to discuss research plans and funding availability
- Prepare and submit an online application including:
- Profile information and education history (transcripts required for postdocs)
- Research proposal (up to 10 pages) detailing problem statement, background, methodology, expected results, and significance
- Letters of recommendation (minimum 3, maximum 5), uploaded by letter writers via the online system
- Applications are reviewed by expert panels in relevant scientific disciplines
- Review includes evaluation of academic record, research proposal quality, letters of recommendation, and host laboratory support
- Applicants scoring 70+ out of 100 are recommended for awards, subject to funding availability
- Applicants will receive reviewer feedback approximately one week after review finalization
Additional Information
- Awardees receive mentorship, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and opportunities to collaborate with leading scientists
- Research tenure typically ranges from 2 to 3 years
- Health insurance and relocation benefits are provided
- Applicants should ensure all application materials are complete and submitted by the deadline
- Previous NRC Research Associateship holders may apply again after a two-year gap from prior award termination
External Links
Contact Information