Postdoc Programs

The goal of the NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) is to provide some of the most talented new and senior Ph.D.'s with opportunities to participate in NASA mission-related activities as guests at NASA Centers, Headquarters, and other NASA-approved sites, such as JPL. It provides the opportunity for concentrated research on an annual basis, renewable up to two additional years.

Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) manages the program for NASA.  NPP Fellows are not employees of NASA, ORAU, JPL, or any other office or agency. Application deadlines are November 1, March 1 and July 1, annually.  The application process involves the advisor's recommendation as well as evaluation through an independently appointed review panel. JPL selections are based on NASA's research priorities, quality of applications, and availability of funding.  Appointments are for one year, but renewable up to a maximum duration of three years.

More information is available through the NASA Postdoctoral Program website, including a list of research opportunities.

Please review our Postdoc Program Guidelines for more information.

 

 

Senior Fellows

The NASA Postdoctoral Program also offers Senior Fellowships.  A Senior Fellow has held the doctoral degree for five or more years at the time of application. Senior fellows are part of the NPP program and sponsored through ORAU. If the Fellow has an appointment as a Senior Fellow, the NPP Advisor functions in a collegial relationship and assists with securing space, equipment, or technical and clerical support.