Homeland Security woos scientists, engineers for science and tech division

Officials want to develop interest in homeland security-related research.

The Homeland Security Department on Monday announced that it would hire postdoctoral associates to conduct research for its science and technology division.

The department is seeking up to 10 associates to research homeland defense devices at universities, department laboratories and Energy Department labs.

The awards will be given four times a year to doctoral-level scientists and engineers within five years of their doctorate.

The program "will be an essential aspect of our effort to develop the next generation of scientists and engineers who are focusing on the homeland security mission," division Undersecretary Charles McQueary said.

Postdoctoral awards cover one year and are renewable for up to three years. The approximate annual stipend for new awardees for 2005 will be $55,000, depending upon the sponsoring venue. For more information, visit http://www.DHS.gov/universityprograms.