NIH Bioethics Fellowship 2026: Paid 2-Year Program for Grads & Postdocs (Apply Now)

The Department of Bioethics at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has opened applications for its 2026 Bioethics Fellowship Program. This is a prestigious two-year opportunity available for both Post-Doctoral scholars and Post-Baccalaureate students.

Selected fellows receive a competitive government stipend to conduct mentored research on ethical issues in biomedical research, genetics, and public health. A unique feature of this program is that no prior bioethics experience is required. If you are planning a career in medicine, law, or academia and want to publish first-authored papers in premier journals, this is the perfect stepping stone. The deadlines are in early January 2026.

Fellowship Overview & Key Details

Program Scope: What Will You Do?

Fellows participate fully in the intellectual life of the department. This is not just a research role; it is an immersive educational experience. Research: You will conduct mentored theoretical and empirical research. For a typical fellow, this results in multiple publications in top academic journals. Seminars: Participation in weekly bioethics seminars, case conferences, and ethics consultations. Policy Work: You may be involved in IRB deliberations and reviewing ethical issues in biotechnology and health policy.

Eligibility Criteria

The program has two distinct tracks with specific eligibility rules. Please check which one applies to you:

1. Post-Baccalaureate Fellowship

• Target Audience: Students planning to pursue MD, JD, or PhD degrees in the future.
• Degree Timeline: You must hold a Bachelor's degree completed no more than 3 years prior to the start date (or a Master's completed no more than 6 months prior).

2. Post-Doctoral Fellowship

• Target Audience: Scholars ready to launch an independent academic career.
• Degree Timeline: You must hold a Doctoral degree (PhD, MD, JD, etc.) completed no more than 5 years prior to the start date.

Note: This program is open to ALL disciplines. You do not need a background in science or philosophy to apply.

Application Requirements

To apply, you need to submit a comprehensive dossier via the NIH website. Ensure you have the following ready:

1. Statement of Interest: This is crucial—explain why you want to study bioethics at NIH.
2. Resume/CV.
3. Transcripts: Undergraduate and graduate.
4. Three Letters of Recommendation.
5. Writing Samples: Up to two samples demonstrating your analytical and writing abilities.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted online. Be mindful of the split deadlines:

• Post-Doctoral Applicants: Apply by January 1, 2026.
• Post-Baccalaureate Applicants: Apply by January 15, 2026.

Official Application Link: Click Here to Apply for NIH Bioethics Fellowship