The NRC Research Associateship Programs offer prestigious fellowships for independent research by postdoctoral and senior scientists at leading U.S. federal laboratories.
Funder: NRC Research Associateship Programs
Due Dates: February 1, 2026 | May 1, 2026 | August 1, 2026 | August 3, 2026 | November 1, 2026
Funding Amounts: Awards typically provide a 12-month stipend (amount varies by agency/location), renewable for up to 2–3 years; relocation, health insurance, and travel support included.
Summary: Prestigious postdoctoral and senior research fellowships for self-directed research at leading U.S. federal laboratories.
Key Information: Applicants may only apply to on-site opportunities at participating federal labs; eligibility and citizenship requirements vary by agency.
The NRC Research Associateship Programs (RAP), administered by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, offer highly competitive research fellowships for postdoctoral and senior scientists and engineers to conduct independent research at select U.S. federal laboratories and affiliated institutions. Since 1954, these awards have supported the professional growth of researchers by providing access to mentorship, state-of-the-art facilities, and collaborative opportunities with leading experts in diverse scientific and engineering fields. The program seeks to advance research careers, strengthen the scientific community, and enhance the research goals of sponsoring federal agencies.