Research

Postdoctoral Training

Postdoctoral Fellows engage in pure laboratory research. Applicants must have either a graduate doctoral degree (e.g., Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D.) or a professional degree (e.g., M.D., D.O., D.D.S., D.M.D. or D.V.M.) accompanied by previous research laboratory experience.

Eligibility

American and foreign-born applicants who are no more than 5 years beyond the date of their most recent doctoral degree at the time of application are eligible. Other appointment mechanisms are available for more senior researchers.

Time Period of Training

Postdoctoral fellows can spend up to 5 years in the NIAMS' postdoctoral program. This program is aimed at promoting the careers of talented individuals through intensive exposure to the latest advances in basic, clinical, and epidemiological research. Opportunities exist for fellows to take a variety of courses at the NIH and to participate in patient care where appropriate.

Financial Support

NIH has a program designed to facilitate receiving an R01 award earlier in an investigator's research career: NIH Pathway to Independence (PI) Award (K99/R00). Scientists working in the IRP may be eligible to participate in NIH's Loan Repayment Program.

How to Apply

  • Visit the various NIAMS Research Labs to identify a laboratory or research area that interests you.
  • Supply a Curriculum Vitae and Other Supporting Documents.
  • Include information on past research experience, science awards, honors, student programs and participation in scientific meetings.
  • Include abstracts and scientific papers.
  • Request recommendation letters from science faculty, preceptors, etc. that have direct knowledge of your scientific interests and abilities.

Updated October 10, 2007