USDA APHIS Veterinary Services, Regionalization Evaluation Services, NC

Description of Elective Experience: 

Regionalization Evaluation Services (RES) evaluates the animal health statuses of foreign regions and assesses the risk of disease introduction via animal commodities for import into the United States. We follow science- and risk-based approaches that are consistent with APHIS obligations under international trade agreements. Externs would participate in projects as assigned, as well as opportunities to shadow Veterinary Services (VS) personnel both virtually and in-person. Past students have completed short projects and developed oral presentations. Externs may also be able to shadow VS personnel carrying out duties in the field, such as inspecting animals or animal facilities. When externs are not meeting with VS personnel or working on projects, we expect they will complete self-paced learning activities including Incident Command System (ICS) training and National Veterinary Accreditation Program (NVAP) modules.

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/export/internatio...

Institutional and Educational Resources - staffing, equipment, etc.: 

Students must provide their own IT equipment (computer with video call ability, phone) and transportation if needed to field opportunities.

Student Responsibilities - what is expected of students in terms of hours, days of the week, shadowing or actual support?: 

For a typical 4-week externship, we expect 160 work hours. Hours are typically M-F 8-430 with flexibility based on the work available. Students are expected to work closely with their mentor to set an overall work plan and understand training and shadowing opportunities. Students are expected to work independently to manage their own schedule and obligations, with assistance from the mentor as needed.

Student Housing (include costs, amenities, pet friendly, contact info if different from elective contact info): 

This is a virtual externship. The student will participate from their existing geographic location. If the student participates in a field shadowing experience they are expected to provide their own transportation.

Supervisor: 
Amber Kerk, DVM MPH
Website: 
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/export/international-standard-setting-activities-oie/regionalization/res/ct_reg_request
Contact email: 
Address: 
920 Main Campus Drive
Suite 300
Raleigh, NC 27606
United States
Practice or Institution Type: 
Is student housing available?: 
No
Hours of supervision by a licensed veterinarian per week: 
40