SERDP-ESTCP Strategic Environmental Research Fellowship

Organization
U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)
Reference Code
SERDP-ESTCP-2026-0001
How to Apply

Click on Apply at the bottom of the opportunity to start your application

Description

The Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP) and the Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) is offering a postdoctoral fellowship.

Why should I apply and what will I be doing?

As the selected candidate, you will engage with an organization within the Department of Defense (DoD) dedicated to advancing research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of scalable, mission-critical technologies. SERDP and ESTCP oversee a portfolio of more than 400 active demonstration projects focused on site remediation, energy systems, natural hazards, and water supply. Under the guidance of a scientific mentor, you will gain experience and learn to conduct rigorous data analysis and cross-project data synthesis, identify critical technical and data gaps, and determine future applied research priorities. Additionally, you will learn to synthesize complex scientific findings into technical evaluations, author peer-reviewed manuscripts, and develop empirical data visualizations for leadership decision support.

Where will I be located?

The SERDP and ESTCP office is located in Alexandria VA, but relocation will not be necessary. Occasional travel to Alexandria VA will be necessary as well as travel to key scientific meetings.

What is the anticipated start date?

Exact start dates will be determined at the time of selection and in coordination with the selected candidate. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis, and the fellowship will be filled as a qualified candidate is identified.

What is the appointment length?

Appointments are initially for one year with the option to extend the appointment for up to four additional years, contingent upon project needs and funding availability.

What are the provisions?

You will receive a stipend to be determined by SERDP and ESTCP; however, the anticipated stipend range is $110,000-$120,000 for this 12-month appointment. Stipends are typically based on a participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location.

Other provisions may include the following:

• Health Insurance Supplement (Participants are eligible to purchase health insurance through ORISE)
• Training and Travel Allowance

About SERDP and ESTCP:

SERDP and ESTCP develop and demonstrate innovative, scalable technologies that enhance military readiness, improve warfighter capabilities, and strengthen defense infrastructure. The programs prioritize common sense, cost-effective solutions that support operational effectiveness at military installations.

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 a Ph.D. in an eligible STEM discipline. Degree must have been received within 5 years of the application date or be completed by December 31, 2026. Eligible Veterans will have earned their Ph.D. within 10 years of application. 

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with some aspect of challenges on military installations.
• Experience with chemistry, treatment technologies, natural hazards, critical minerals, and/or coastal engineering.

Application Requirements:

• Zintellect Profile Educational and Employment History Essay Questions (goals, experiences, and skills relevant to the opportunity)
• Resume (PDF)
• Transcripts/Academic Records - For this opportunity, an unofficial transcript or copy of the student academic records printed by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institution systems may be submitted.  Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts
• One Recommendation. We encourage you to contact your recommenders 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. The 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.

Submitted documents must have all social security numbers, student identification numbers, and/or dates of birth removed (blanked out, blackened out, made illegible, etc.) prior to uploading into the application system. All documents must be in English or include an official English translation.

If you have questions, send an email to [email protected]. Please list the reference code of this opportunity SERDP-ESTCP-2026-0001 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.

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Stipend
$110,000.00 – $120,000.00 Yearly
Point of Contact
Brittany
Eligibility Requirements

• Degree: Doctoral Degree received within the last 60 months or anticipated to be received by 12/31/2026 11:59:00 PM.
• Discipline(s):
  • Chemistry and Materials Sciences (12 )
  • Engineering (27 )
  • Environmental and Marine Sciences (14 )
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (48 )
• Age: Must be 18 years of age
• Veteran Status: Veterans Preference, degree received within the last 120 month(s).

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