To be eligible to apply for this program, candidates must hold a doctoral degree and have no more than five years of relevant research experience since receipt of their most recent doctoral degree. Citizens of all non-U.S. countries are welcome to apply.

Awards are granted for an initial 12-month period and may be renewed for up to five years, based on satisfactory performance and the continued availability of funds.

Stipend and benefits

The stipends for postdoctoral Visiting Fellows are adjusted yearly, with supplements for prior experience, multiple degrees, and expertise in areas of current interest to the NIH such as mathematics, engineering, chemistry, and bioinformatics (for current stipend information click here). Federal cost-of-living increases are also applied. Benefits include health insurance for the trainee and his/her family and travel to one meeting each year. In addition, the NIH Fellows Committee and the Office of Intramural Training and Education sponsor a wide range of career development and social activities.

Application procedures

Prospective candidates should apply electronically via the Internet. The electronic application requires submission of a curriculum vitae, a list of the applicant's publications, a cover letter, and the names and contact information for three references. Individuals who do not have access to the Internet are encouraged to visit a local library. To view current NIH postdoctoral openings and/or submit an electronic application click here. For additional positions in the National Cancer Institute click here. Application for these positions should be made by contacting the investigator who has listed the position or by following the instructions included in the position announcement.

Questions about Postdoctoral Visiting Fellowships? Click here.