HIV Postdoctoral Training Program
The HIV Postdoctoral Training Program at Columbia Psychiatry provides interdisciplinary, mentored research training for early-career scientists focused on HIV prevention and treatment.
Funder: Columbia University Department of Psychiatry
Due Dates: July 1, 2026 (anticipated cohort start; applications open prior to this date)
Funding Amounts: NIH postdoctoral stipend (per NIH scale), 2–3 years support, plus limited travel/research funds; cohort of 6 fellows per cycle.
Summary: Prepares early-career researchers for independent, interdisciplinary HIV research careers through mentored training and professional development.
Key Information: U.S. citizenship or permanent residency required; program start contingent on NIH award.
Description
The HIV Postdoctoral Training Program (INSPIRE) at Columbia University Irving Medical Center is a prestigious, NIH-funded T32 fellowship designed to prepare early-career investigators for impactful, independent research careers focused on HIV prevention and treatment. The program is rooted in an interdisciplinary environment integrating behavioral, clinical, and biomedical sciences, with a special emphasis on addressing disparities in HIV outcomes among populations facing mental health challenges and structural inequities.
Fellows benefit from:
- Rigorous training across mental health, sexuality, psychosocial processes, epidemiology, biostatistics, qualitative methods, health promotion, and implementation science.
- A comprehensive curriculum including mentored research, individualized development plans, didactic coursework, and structured opportunities for academic, leadership, and grant-writing skill-building.
- Interdisciplinary mentorship from leading faculty, supporting the development of cross-disciplinary research programs.
- A collaborative and intellectually vibrant training environment with access to resources and networking opportunities across Columbia University.
The program has a strong track record of producing successful researchers who secure competitive funding and contribute significantly to HIV science.
