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  4. Scientific Internships, Fellowships / Trainees and Non-U.S. Citizens
  5. Postgraduate Research Program (NCTR)
  1. Scientific Internships, Fellowships / Trainees and Non-U.S. Citizens

Postgraduate Research Program (NCTR)

This program is administered by the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) and allows recent postgraduates (postdoctoral, predoctoral, and postbaccalaureate) an opportunity to initiate and conduct independent or collaborative research that complements projects at the FDA's National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR).

Appointments are for one year and may be extended in one-year increments up to three years upon recommendation of the FDA and subject to availability of funds. 

Application Requirements

  • Applicants should have received a graduate degree in an appropriate discipline within five years of the desired starting date, or should expect to complete all requirements for such a degree prior to the desired starting date. 

  • All participants must show proof of health insurance prior to the effective date of appointment. ORISE provides no benefits for these temporary appointments; however, NCTR provides a monthly allowance (added to the stipend) for the purchase of health insurance.

  • This program is open to all qualified U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and foreign nationals without regard to race, sex, religion, color, age, handicap, or national origin. 
    Note:  ORISE will process a J-1 visa (Exchange Visitor Program) or accept an F-1 (Optional Practical Training) visa according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requirements for a foreign national applicant selected for the program. 

Instructions and Forms for the Application Process

For Application Inquiries, send e-mail to: ORISE.FDA.NCTR@orau.org


U.S. Postal Mailing Address
Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE)
ATTN: FDA Research Participation Programs, MS 36
P.O. Box 117
1299 Bethel Valley Road
Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831-0117

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