Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be paid?

Yes. Salaries are based on federal pay grades GS 11 or 12, depending on your qualifications. See the U.S. Office of Personnel Management Website for more information.

Will I be a CDC employee?

Yes. You will be a temporary employee of CDC during the fellowship. You will receive employment benefits (e.g., medical insurance and vacation time) and must pay taxes on your income.

Are non-U.S. citizens eligible for PHIFP?

Yes. International candidates are eligible for the program and are required to have an appropriate visa before starting the program.

Are fellows required to travel?

You are not required to travel. However, you might be asked to travel for assignments throughout the US. International travel is also possible.

Where are fellows assigned?

You will work in programs throughout CDC, depending on your interests, skills, and the needs of your program. We do our best to match you with assignments that provide the best opportunities for professional development.

What are the prerequisites?

We look for motivated persons with diverse interests. We select applicants who have

• a strong interest in applying information and computer science and technology to the practice of public health, and
• a strong desire to pursue a career in public health informatics.

You should have a master's or higher degree in an appropriate discipline, including, but not limited to

• public health, medicine, or a related healthcare profession;
• computer science, information science, or information systems;
• statistics;
• epidemiology;
• health-services research; or
• a related informatics discipline.

You must have documented training or experience in certain fields (such as informatics, information systems, computer science, public health, or a related healthcare profession).