Applicant Information

Because of the educational nature of these programs, participants must fall into one of the following categories:

1. Students must be enrolled in an accredited U.S. college or university pursuing a degree in a science, technology, engineering or math (STEM), and must maintain satisfactory progress in academic coursework.
2. Postgraduate must have received their degree in an appropriate STEM discipline within 5 years of the appointment start date, or must complete all requirements for such a degree prior to the desired start date.
3. Faculty must be full-time faculty from an accredited U.S. college or university.

Applications will be considered without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, mental or physical disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, or covered veteran’s status.

Currently U.S. DOT opportunities are only open to US citizens.  However, ORISE does have many other opportunities which are open to LPRs and Foreign Nationals.  Please check our opportunity catalog on Zintellect, you can filter under “Citizenship.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Eligibility

• Can current students participate in research at U.S. DOT through ORISE?

Current undergraduate and graduate students may hold appointments during the summer or part-time appointments during the semester. Please visit current opportunities to find projects that are currently accepting applications from students.

• The project I want to apply for requires a completed degree. Do I need to have my degree completed before I apply, or can I apply if I am earning it within a few months?

If you anticipate receiving your degree shortly, then you may apply. If you are selected, you will be required to show proof of degree completion before beginning the appointment. Most opportunities have a degree received by date.

There are various types of immigration statuses that allow foreign nationals to participate in some Research Participation Programs where U.S. citizenship is not required. Generally, participants are not required to hold U.S. citizenship. However, a few EPA offices may have restricted areas that may only allow U.S. citizens access due to the sensitive nature of the research performed. 

Are there opportunities at U.S. DOT through ORISE that are not posted on the ORISE website?

All opportunities for ORISE Research Participation Programs at U.S. DOT should be listed in Zintellect. Check back often for additional postings. 

How to I know if the opportunity is still accepting applications?

If you see the opportunity on Zintellect then it is still actively accepting applications. Opportunities are closed on the deadline or after an applicant is selected and starts the appointment.

How many references do I need? Will it help me to send more?

Two recommendations must be received before you begin your appointment. Selection officials will not be able to see your application until at least one reference has been received. You may submit more than two names, however, only the first two recommendations received can be viewed by the committee. In fairness to all applicants, we cannot manually provide the committee with the additional recommendations.

What do I need from my references?

When filling out your application in Zintellect you will be prompted to enter two names and email addresses for references. Zintellect then sends your reference an email with two open answer questions and 12 questions for them to rate you on a scale. Your reference has an option to attach a recommendation letter. Recommendations cannot come from the U.S. DOT mentor or coordinator of the opportunity you are applying for.

Who should fill out a reference for me?

You should obtain references from people familiar with your educational and professional qualifications. At least one reference should be from a professor or other similar individual who can comment on your educational experience.

Can I attach an unofficial transcript?

Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts. Unofficial transcripts are okay for the application but if selected you will need to attach an official transcript or letter from your academic institution stating that you met the degree requirements.

Is there anything I can do to improve my chances of getting an appointment?

Please ensure that your application is submitted and your recommendations have been received.

Can the anticipated appointment start date be changed?

All start dates are flexible and vary depending on numerous factors including:

• How long the interview process takes
• Date the applicant is selected
• U.S. DOT’s desired start date
• The chosen applicant’s desired start date
• Completing the U.S. DOT security process

The appointment end date may change based on your actual start date to reflect a one year appointment.

How long will my appointment last?

Initial appointments are usually made for one year. They may be extended up to a maximum total of five years, based upon program needs, funding availability, and participant eligibility. Shorter appointments are also available, based upon program needs and candidate availability. The opportunity should state expected duration of the appointment. 

What is the average stipend for appointments?

Stipend rates vary on numerous factors including the opportunity, location, education, and experience. If you are interviewed for the opportunity you will be able to inquire about the exact stipend at that time. The following are very general monthly stipend ranges for U.S. DOT ORISE opportunities:

• Undergraduate student $2,000-$3,000
• Post BS $3,000-$4,500
• Graduate student (MS and PhD) $3,500-$6,500
• Post MS $4,000-$6,000
• Postdoc $5,000-$7,500