USAEC Wildlife Research Fellowship

The West Point Military Reservation is seeking a Post bachelor's fellow for their Wildlife Research Fellowship at the West Point, NY facility. 

Why should I apply and what will I be doing?

As an ORISE participant under the guidance of a mentor, the participant will conduct research on the management of protected plant and animal species on the West Point Military Reservation, with a primary focus on protected non-game fish and wildlife and their habitats. The participant will help plan, develop, and implement technical field surveys using standard protocols to assess species presence, ecological impacts, habitat conditions, and potential constraints affecting protected species. These activities will support ongoing natural resources management objectives by contributing field-based data, technical observations, and research findings that inform conservation planning, compliance efforts, and long-term stewardship of protected species and their habitats.

Although the project will primarily emphasize non-game and protected species, the participant will also have an opportunity to gain experience in game management, invasive species control, and nuisance species management in support of the installation’s mission. Research activities may include conducting habitat assessments and species presence surveys; assisting with the operation of a big-game hunting harvest check station and gaining insight into the management of a fish and game program; supporting forestry and invasive species surveys, outreach, and education efforts; participating in formal and informal human dimensions surveys; and collecting and analyzing data to identify species management trends and inform potential natural resource management initiatives on an active military installation.

Where will I be located?

West Point, New York

What is the anticipated start date?

The West Point Military Reservation is prepared to begin this appointment immediately. 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 internships or fellowships will be filled as qualified candidates are identified.

What is the appointment length?

This appointment is a eleven-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.

What are the provisions?

You will receive a stipend to be determined by USAEC. 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)
• Relocation Allowance
• Training and Travel Allowance

About U.S. Army Environmental Command (USAEC) 

The U.S. Army Environmental Command (USAEC) proudly delivers environmental services and solutions in support of the Army's Environmental Program, enabling Army readiness and sustainability. USAEC has another directorate with the West Point Military Reservation located Only 50 miles from New York City, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point is a four-year academic institution, a nationally renowned historic site, and the oldest continuously occupied military post in America. The mountainous 16,000-acre military reservation is located in New York’s Hudson Highlands Region and contains a wide variety of habitats including 13 lakes, 305 wetlands, and over 50 miles of streams. As the selected participant, you will be stationed within the Natural Resources Program at US Army Garrison West Point, where you will be exposed to a variety of objectives and educational opportunities typically related to the management of installation natural resources. For more information about the West Point Military Reservation, please visit https://home.army.mil/westpoint/.

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 earned a bachelor's degree in wildlife management, Environmental Science, Terrestrial Ecology, Natural Resources Conservation or a related field within the last 60 months.  

• Minimum GPA 3.2
• U.S. Citizenship and driver's license is required
• Applicants must be able to pass a basic background investigation

A complete application consists of:

• 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.
• 1 Recommendation

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 ARMY@orise.orau.gov. Please list the reference code of this opportunity Army-AEC-2026-0001 in the subject line of the email.

Connect with ORISE...on the GO! Download the new ORISE GO mobile app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to help you stay engaged, connected, and informed during your ORISE experience and beyond!