Are you curious about pursuing a career in biomedical research? The National Institutes of Health (NIH), the nation’s premier biomedical research agency, offers a range of paid training programs designed to immerse students and early-career scientists in collaborative, cutting-edge research.
Through the NIH Intramural Research Program (IRP), trainees work alongside world-renowned scientists and contribute to research that spans basic, translational, and clinical studies. The NIH also provides robust career and professional development offerings through the Office of Intramural Training & Education (OITE) to help participants prepare for successful futures in science, medicine, and related fields.
Below are NIH programs currently recruiting students and recent graduates:
1. Summer Internship Program (SIP)
Spend your summer gaining hands-on experience in biomedical research through the NIH SIP. This full-time program is open to college, community college, graduate, and professional school students. In addition to research, interns have access to professional development and well-being activities.
Application opens: December 8, 2025 (9:00 a.m. ET)
Application deadline: February 18, 2026 (12:00 p.m. ET)
Reference deadline: February 25, 2026 (12:00 p.m. ET)
Virtual Info Session:
NIH Summer Internship Program Application Webinar
Wednesday, December 10, 2025 | 4:00–5:00 p.m. ET
2. Postbac Program
The NIH Postbac Program is designed for recent college graduates who plan to apply to graduate or professional school. Participants spend one or two years conducting full-time research while accessing advising and career development support.
Applications: Accepted year-round and reviewed on a rolling basis.
Virtual Info Session:
NIH Postbac Program Application Webinar
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 | 4:00–5:00 p.m. ET
3. Undergraduate Scholarship Program (UGSP)
The UGSP supports exceptional undergraduates from disadvantaged backgrounds who are committed to biomedical, behavioral, or social science research. This merit- and need-based program provides up to $20,000 per year for tuition and living expenses, plus opportunities for paid NIH research training and post-graduation employment.
Application opens: January 5, 2026
Application deadline: March 24, 2026 (12:00 p.m. ET)
Reference deadline: March 31, 2026
Financial need form due: May 18, 2026
Virtual Info Session:
NIH Undergraduate Scholarship Program Application Webinar
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 | 3:00–4:00 p.m. ET
4. Graduate Partnerships Program (GPP)
The NIH GPP allows Ph.D. students to pursue collaborative training between their home university and the NIH. Students benefit from a unique combination of academic mentorship and NIH research resources.
Application deadline: December 5, 2025 (12:00 p.m. ET)
Recommendation deadline: December 8, 2025 (12:00 p.m. ET)
Fall 2026 admissions are open for institutional partnerships with universities such as Brown, Georgetown, Johns Hopkins, the University of Pennsylvania, Oxford, Cambridge, and others.
Learn more: NIH Graduate Partnerships Program – Institutional Partnerships
Current Ph.D. students can also explore individual partnerships that allow them to complete dissertation research at the NIH: Individual Partnership Program details
5. Postdoctoral Training
The NIH Postdoctoral Program offers recent Ph.D. and other doctoral degree holders the opportunity to advance their research in an interdisciplinary environment. Postdocs engage in basic, translational, and clinical research while collaborating with NIH scientists and clinicians.
Applications: Accepted on a rolling basis. Open positions are listed on the NIH OITE Job Board . Candidates are also encouraged to contact principal investigators directly to inquire about lab openings.
Get Involved and Learn More
NIH programs provide hands-on mentored training and professional development for emerging scientists at every stage from undergraduates to postdocs. All NIH research experiences are paid opportunities; details on stipends can be found here: NIH Trainee Stipends .
Visit training.nih.gov for more information, eligibility criteria, and application tips. You can also take a virtual tour of the NIH’s Bethesda campus and explore research areas that match your interests.
Whether you are planning your first summer research experience or seeking advanced postdoctoral training, NIH offers a vibrant environment to grow as a scientist and make a meaningful impact on human health.
Interested Duke students and alumni:
Discuss how NIH training opportunities fit into your career path by scheduling an appointment with a Duke Career Advisor through Career Hub .
