Postdoc Recruitment Event

I am attending graduate school on a F1 visa. Can I still apply?

Yes, you can still apply to the program. The basic requirement is that you are a senior Ph.D. student at a U.S. degree granting institution. However, you should know that you must become a permanent resident or hold a J1 visa at the time of appointment. Please visit the NIH Division of International Services for more information.

I intend to defend my dissertation in January of next year. Is it too soon to apply to the program?

No. You can use the opportunity to learn about programs, network, and determine availability for future positions. You can also discuss potential start dates with investigators during your meeting(s); there may be some flexibility.

What is the benefit of applying to PRE?

You will have the opportunity to meet with numerous PIs and laboratories at the NCI prior to the official interview. This provides valuable information about the lab(s), allowing you to determine if a specific lab is a good fit before accepting an offer. Moreover, investigators hold the accepted applicants in high esteem, as they are competitively reviewed and selected for the program, and rely on the PRE to fill their open positions.

Does acceptance into the program guarantee me a position at NCI/NIH?

No, acceptance does not guarantee a position. However, the chances of receiving an offer are higher than if you were to email investigators yourself to inquire about open positions.

Are the meetings with investigators official job interviews?

Perhaps. The structure of your interview is dependent on you and the PI at the time of scheduling. Most applicants set up 30-60 minute meetings, where they learn about the PI, lab, and possibly meet lab members. An official interview is typically a half day, where in addition to speaking with the PI and lab members, you also present a job talk. However, both can take place during the meeting scheduling period prior to or during the PRE conference. Additionally, you will be able to present your research during the virtual poster session where the PIs will be able to attend and ask questions. Roughly 50-70% of the PRE applicants go on to have official interviews after the program. Students even receive job offers immediately following or during the visit!