NRC Research Associateship Programs (Postdoctoral & Senior)

Prestigious postdoctoral and senior research awards placing scientists and engineers at U.S. federal laboratories; the current cycle closes August 3, 2026.

Competitive stipend that varies by sponsoring federal agency and laboratory, required health insurance with shared cost, relocation assistance for awardees living more than 50 miles from the host lab, and an annual professional travel and development allowance.

• Stipend that varies by sponsoring agency and location
• Shared-cost health insurance coverage
• Relocation assistance for qualifying awardees
• Annual professional travel and development allowance
• Mentorship and access to federal laboratory facilities

• Hold a Ph.D., Sc.D., M.D., D.V.M., or equivalent research doctorate before beginning tenure
• Postdoctoral track: doctorate held for less than five years as of the application deadline
• Senior track: doctorate held five or more years, or an established record as a senior investigator
• No current or recent (within 24 months) employment affiliation with the host laboratory
• Citizenship and security clearance requirements vary by sponsoring federal agency

1. 1Search open Research Opportunities by sponsoring agency in the NRC RAP database
2. 2Contact the proposed Research Adviser to discuss the project and funding availability
3. 3Follow the Applicant Guide to prepare transcripts, letters, and a research proposal
4. 4Submit your application online (up to three opportunities per cycle, one per agency)