Research Participation at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 2026 | Fully Funded Training & Stipends
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CDC Research Participation Program 2026 | Paid Research & Training at CDC
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Apply for the CDC Research Participation Program 2026 a paid educational and research experience at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Open to STEM students, graduates, and faculty with stipends, travel support, and mentorship.CDC Research Participation Program 2026, CDC research internships, ORISE CDC opportunities, CDC paid research program, public health research CDC, research training CDC
What Is the CDC Research Participation Program 2026?
The Research Participation Program at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a paid, hands-on research and training initiative that places students, recent graduates, and university faculty in real-world scientific research environments at CDC facilities across the United States. Organized through the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), this program connects participants with leading CDC scientists and state-of-the-art public health research on topics ranging from infectious diseases to environmental health and chronic disease prevention.
Whether you’re pursuing a STEM degree, recently completed one, or are a faculty member seeking experiential research collaboration, this opportunity is designed to boost your skills and professional network while contributing to CDC’s mission of protecting public health.
Who Can Apply Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the CDC Research Participation Program 2026, you must fall into one of the following categories:
Students
- Currently enrolled in an accredited pre-college, college, or university program in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics).
- Must maintain satisfactory academic standing and progress.
Recent Graduates (Postgraduates)
- Must have earned a degree in a relevant STEM discipline within five years of the anticipated start date or be completing all requirements before starting the appointment.
- Programs span undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels depending on position.
Faculty
- Full-time faculty from accredited institutions (pre-college, college, or universities) engaged in STEM education or research are eligible.
Applications are reviewed without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or veteran status.
Program Benefits & Support
Participation in the CDC Research Participation Program offers valuable academic and financial support, including:
Monthly Stipend
A competitive monthly stipend is provided to help cover living expenses during the appointment. Stipend amounts vary depending on educational level and assignment.
Travel & Relocation Support
Depending on your assignment and mentor, you may be eligible for travel reimbursement or relocation allowances to support your move to the CDC facility location.
Health Insurance Stipend
Some mentors also provide a stipend for health, dental, and vision insurance, ensuring participants meet program requirements.
Mentorship & Training
Participants work closely with experienced CDC scientists and professionals, gaining insight into cutting-edge research methodologies, laboratory techniques, data analysis, and public health practices.
Career Advancement
This immersive experience enhances professional credentials, expands your network within public health, and often gives participants a competitive edge in future academic, research, or industry careers.
Application Process
Step 1: Create a Zintellect Profile
To apply, you must first create or log in to your Zintellect profile the CDC’s online application platform managed by ORISE.
Step 2: Submit Required Documents
A complete application typically includes:
- Current résumé or curriculum vitae
- Academic transcripts (official or unofficial)
- At least one recommendation (from a professor or professional familiar with your qualifications)
Step 3: Application Review & Mentor Selection
CDC mentors review submitted applications and select participants based on qualifications and project fit. Selected candidates enter the ORISE appointment process, which includes verification of eligibility and compliance with CDC security and background checks.
Step 4: Acceptance & Appointment
Once selected and cleared, the participant receives an official appointment letter and begins their placement, typically ranging from several months to appointments that may extend up to one year.
Areas of Research & CDC Centers
Participants may conduct research across multiple CDC divisions and public health domains, including:
- Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases
- Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
- Environmental Health and Toxicology
- Global Health Protection
- Immunization and Vaccine Effectiveness
- Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities
- Injury Prevention and Control
- Public Health Preparedness and Response
Assignments depend on mentor needs and project availability, giving you the chance to contribute to real public health initiatives that influence policy and community outcomes.
Program Duration & Timing
- Initial research appointments are typically up to one year and may be extended based on project needs, funding, and participant eligibility.
- Some assignments allow longer engagements depending on the discretion of the CDC mentor and program requirements.
Positions are posted year-round in Zintellect, and opportunities may close once filled or remain open for rolling applications depending on the project.
Why You Should Apply
Choosing to participate in the CDC Research Participation Program 2026 can be a career-defining step if you are passionate about health sciences, epidemiology, environmental health, or public policy research.
- Gain hands-on scientific research experience with a leading public health agency.
- Collaborate with top researchers on projects that shape national and global health strategies.
- Enhance your academic profile and career potential in public health, biomedical research, and related STEM fields.
Final Call to Action
If you are a STEM student, recent graduate, or faculty member seeking real-world research experience with world-class scientists, the CDC Research Participation Program 2026 offers training, mentorship, and financial support to advance your career. Ready to make an impact in public health research.