The Class of 2009 and 2010 Management Interns includes (front, from l) Jen Dreier, Monique Ndenecho, Reaya Reuss, Jessica Ryan. At rear are (from l) Sheria Washington, Fred James, Aaron Bell, Alan Jackson, Debbie Pettitt, Fettina Bryant.

Have you thought about changing your career path? Outstanding men and women interested in pursuing a career in public service are encouraged to apply for the 2009 NIH Management Intern (MI) Program. Entering its 52nd year, the program—a highly competitive 2-year rotational training opportunity—has been successful in identifying and training future NIH leaders to manage in the public sector. The program offers an opportunity to explore different administrative career fields, gain insight and train for leadership roles. Many graduates now hold high-level managerial positions with NIH and other federal agencies. Recruitment will open on Feb. 13 and close Mar. 13.

During the MI program, individuals complete rotational assignments that introduce them to potential administrative career tracks in budget and finance, public liaison, legislative analysis, program planning and evaluation, grants and contracts, information technology, human resources management, central services management, science policy, program and management analysis and general administration.

Interns enter the program from various career backgrounds, including administrative offices, intramural research laboratories and patient care. NIH personnel who are looking to switch careers from science to administration should consider the program. Skills in project management and evaluation; idea and literature research; data collection, analysis and presentation; negotiation; problem-solving; communication; and the ability to lead teams are key attributes of successful interns.

To be eligible to apply, candidates must be U.S. citizens willing to work full time and currently employed at NIH for at least 12 months. Positions are offered at the GS-5 level or above wage grade equivalent, or on any other type of appointment that offers noncompetitive conversion during the application period. The program has a career ladder with potential to the GS-12 level, depending on the candidate’s grade at time of selection.

In order to find out more about the MI program, potential applicants are invited to attend one of the information sessions (see below). The application process and the schedule of sessions can also be found online at http://internships.info.nih.gov. For more information contact Cheronn Collins, (301) 594-2507.

Information Sessions (all are noon to 1 p.m.):

Feb. 6 RKL II / 9112

Feb. 13 Bldg. 10/2C116

Feb. 20 Bldg. 31/6C10

Feb. 27 Neuroscience/B1B2, 6001 Executive Blvd.

Mar. 4 Bldg. 31/6C6 (NIEHS Videoconferencing Bldg. 101)

Mar. 6 EPS/Classroom 9.