FDA Research Fellowship: Neurodevelopmental Assessment of Prenatal Analgesic Exposure Using Tra

Organization

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER)

FDA-CDER-

National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR) in Jefferson, Arkansas, approximately 30 miles south of Little Rock.

NCTR is conducting developmental neurotoxicology studies at the request of CDER to assess a compound of particular regulatory importance. Findings from this research may directly inform guidelines on medication use during pregnancy. Two related projects are underway: one examines histological and molecular endpoints in a guinea pig model, while the second focuses on behavioral outcomes and their underlying biological factors in the rat following perinatal exposure.

• Engage in experimental design and interpretation
• Collect in‑life data and validate endpoints
• Analyze data and disseminate results
• Regularly present findings at internal meetings attended by NCTR and CDER staff
• Assist in manuscript preparation and external presentations

Hands‑on experience with neurotoxicological methods including basic histology, immunohistochemistry, light and confocal microscopy, molecular biological techniques for gene expression and protein quantification, advanced behavioral assessments, and an introduction to magnetic resonance imaging. Gain practical experience in project organization, coordination, and execution, and opportunities to present findings at internal and external meetings.

John Talpos (john.talpos.gov), Timothy Flanigan (timothy.flanigan.gov)

Start date:

2026 (flexible). Appointment length: initially one year, may be renewed upon recommendation and availability of funds. Level of participation: full time.

Monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience.

U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR), and foreign nationals. Non‑U.S. citizens must meet immigration status requirements as specified by program guidelines.

The candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in one of the relevant fields.

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree within the past three years at time of appointment
• Doctoral degree received or currently pursuing

• Degree:
  Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral Degree
• Discipline(s):
  Chemistry and Materials Sciences (including Bio‑organic Chemistry, Biophysical Chemistry, General Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Organic Chemistry);
  Engineering;
  Life Health and Medical Sciences;
  Social and Behavioral Sciences