NIDDK Intramural Research Program (IRP) Postdoctoral Fellowships
On this page:
- Purpose
- Eligibility
- Find a Mentor and Apply
- Length of Award
- Benefits and Services
- Federal Background Check
Purpose
The program provides advanced training and research experience to physicians and Ph.D.-level investigators who are at the beginning stages of their professional research careers. Participants will engage in research studies under the direction of preceptors and apply their newly gained knowledge and enhance their research skills through participation in ongoing research investigations. Additional program details are available on the NIH Office of Intramural Training and Education website.
Eligibility
Applicants must
- have an M.D., Ph.D., D.D.S., D.M.D., D.V.M., or equivalent degree in a biomedical, behavioral, or related science, or certification by a university as meeting all the requirements leading to such a doctorate
- have 5 or fewer years of relevant post-doctoral research experience and up to 2 additional years of experience not oriented towards research (i.e., clinical training for physicians)
- pass a federal background check
U.S. citizens and permanent residents are appointed to Postdoctoral Intramural Research Training Awards (IRTAs); citizens of other nations are appointed as Visiting Fellows.
Visas are required for non-U.S. citizens. Visa Classification Information is available on the NIH Division of International Service website.
Find a Mentor and Apply
Before you apply for a position, review NIDDK Labs and Branches and identify potential faculty whose research interests align with your goals. Consider contacting faculty directly to discuss your interest in a position at NIDDK. Read tips for finding the right mentor.
There is no formal application process. Instead, send your CV and three references to your potential mentor and contact the NIDDK Fellows Career Development and Recruitment Office with questions.
Length of Award
Initial appointments may be for one to three years, with extensions in one-year increments not to exceed five years total. Participants may not be part-time for more than an eight-year calendar period. Intermittent schedules are not permitted.
Benefits and Services
Learn about numerous benefits and services available to trainees in this program.
I would say without hesitation that I am in the best place to do research and encourage [others] to join.
Federal Background Check
To be approved for access to NIH facilities and systems, candidates must be able to pass a federal background check, using Standard Form-85 (read SF-85 (PDF, 204 KB) ). NOTE: Section 14 of the form asks, “In the last year, have you used, possessed, supplied, or manufactured illegal drugs?” The question pertains to the illegal use of drugs or controlled substances in accordance with Federal laws, even though potentially permissible under state laws.