NIH Approach Methodologies; NAMs and Women’s Health

Description

This postdoctoral research opportunity offers an immersive STEM learning experience within the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Office of Research on Women's Health (ORWH). ORWH's mission focuses on advancing understanding of biological and social factors that impact women's health. Through this program, participants will engage in high-priority scientific initiatives that contribute to ORWH's efforts, including exploring the scientific applications of emerging NAMs (novel and alternative methodologies) in women's health.

Learning opportunities include involvement in NIH-wide research programs, such as the Computational Modeling of Hormone Homeostasis initiative, as well as collaborative efforts across NIH to examine topics such as NAMs and sex differences in health. Participants will also gain experience in the planning, coordination, and stewardship of research portfolios within these areas. Additional activities may be tailored to align with the participant's interests and skillset, providing a unique and customizable educational experience.

During this appointment, the participant will engage in a STEM learning experience focused on developing advanced technical proficiency in applying New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) to scientific questions related to women’s health and sex differences research. Through guided exploration of scientific literature, hands-on analysis, and synthesis of emerging evidence, the participant will deepen their understanding of NAMs applications that address evidence gaps and align with ORWH scientific priorities.

The fellowship provides opportunities to contribute to NIH-wide initiatives, such as the Computational Modeling of Hormone Homeostasis project, as well as other ORWH-related activities. These experiences will help the participant enhance quantitative reasoning, computational modeling, and methodological problem-solving skills. Additionally, the participant will refine their ability to communicate technical findings to interdisciplinary teams and scientific audiences, while applying these skills to explore evidence gaps within the ORWH research portfolio.

This immersive experience is designed to foster growth in both technical expertise and collaborative scientific communication.

Participating in this STEM research learning program offers an opportunity to gain valuable insights into NIH research mechanisms and collaborative initiatives. Through guided exploration and mentorship, you will learn how to navigate NIH databases and apply data analysis techniques to uncover meaningful insights. You will develop skills in identifying metrics and key indicators used to evaluate research programs, comparing outcomes across different types of collaborative initiatives, and exploring data-driven approaches to inform recommendations for future programs.

This experience is designed to enhance your analytical abilities, broaden your understanding of NIH research frameworks, and provide a unique opportunity to engage with interdisciplinary scientific concepts within a collaborative learning environment.

Fellows are expected to be fully engaged, either in-person, hybrid, or remote. In-person or hybrid location is Bethesda, MD.

The selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend to help offset living and other expenses during this appointment. Stipend rates are determined by NIH officials and are based on the candidate’s academic and professional background. NIH may provide a health insurance supplement to cover the monthly premium costs if you elect the ORAU/ORISE health insurance plan, as necessary.

The appointment will initially be for one year and may be renewed annually for an additional four years, contingent on the availability of funds.

An initial review of applications will occur on July 1, 2026
. Thereafter, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the 2026 calendar year, and selections made as projects for participation become available.

This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the…