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Organization/Company: National Fish and Wildlife Forensics Lab (NFWFL) |
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Location: Ashland, OR |
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Website: |
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Pathology Environment: Zoo/Wildlife |
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Discipline/Field of Study: |
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Length of Externship: 4 or more weeks |
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Time of Year: Anytime |
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Funding: see below |
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Housing Provided: see below |
Description of Externship:
Overview: The National Fish and Wildlife Forensics Lab (NFWFL) in Ashland, Oregon offers an unpaid externship in the Pathology Section of the Lab that is open to foreign and US veterinarians and senior veterinary students with an interest in learning the techniques of forensic pathology. NFWFL is part of the US Department of the Interior Office of Law Enforcement. The Lab aids in the investigations of DOI law enforcement agents by analyzing submitted evidence in three scientific disciplines: Pathology, Genetics, and Morphology. Cases for analysis are received from all 50 US states and US territories. The Pathology Section is staffed by two pathologists and utilizes a new, state-of-the-art facility. Externs will learn about the laws governing endangered species in the US, law enforcement evidence handling protocols, forensic and wildlife necropsy techniques, and will be exposed to the functions of other scientific disciplines in the Lab. Due to the legal nature of the casework, exposure is limited to observation only; however, externs will have the opportunity to apply forensic techniques to donated “practice” carcasses. Participation in and, ideally, completion of a short research project is also encouraged. It is recommended that, in their application materials, applicants propose a research project to be undertaken during their time at the Lab. This project may be refined and guided by the staff pathologists. Further information on the facility will be provided when the application is received. It should be noted that weekly hours may vary (20-40) depending on case load and the chosen research project.
Because of the restricted nature of Lab access and recent requirements from the Department of the Interior, a background (fingerprint) check is required which will result in the generation of a DOI security credential. Background checks should, ideally, be initiated 4-6 weeks in advance of the visit for US citizens. Background checks for foreign visitors can only be pursued once a visa has been obtained. It is incumbent upon the applicant to obtain the J-1 (if a student), traveler, or other relevant visa. We are able to provide hosting documentation on request. More information on the background check procedure will be provided upon application acceptance.
Due to the increasing interest in this program, a yearly deadline has been set for application. Priority will be given as outlined below. The deadline is September 30 of the year before the desired rotation time (currently Sept 30, 2023 for Sept 2024-August 2025). We are full for the 2023-2024 school year.
Who may apply: Degreed veterinarians from an AVMA-accredited veterinary college or foreign veterinarians with an accepted degree will be given priority. Senior veterinary students with a demonstrated interest in pathology will be considered if there are remaining openings. The applicant must have good oral and written English communication skills. This opportunity is ideal for current veterinary pathology residents or recent graduates who desire further study and experience in wildlife forensic pathology. Consideration will also be given to residents in or with expertise in other, related disciplines (such as radiology, toxicology, wildlife medicine, and entomology)
Period of externship: The externship period is 2 weeks to one month long.
Accommodations: At this time, the NFWFL cannot offer a stipend or a housing allowance. Foreign veterinarians may seek funding through their embassy science liaison or ASEAN-WEN.
Application materials:
Cover letter/letter of intent
CV
Specific desired timeframe of internship
Outline of proposed project
Please mail or email application materials to:
Dr. Rebecca Kagan
Veterinary Pathologist
National Fish and Wildlife Forensics Lab
1490 E. Main St.
Ashland, OR 97520
[email protected]
Updated:1/11/23