On This Page
- Program Description: An overview of the NIAMS summer internship program.
- Key Features: Highlights of the curriculum and training experience at NIAMS.
- Am I Eligible?: Acceptance criteria all applicants must meet for the program.
- Training Period: Duration of the internship.
- Financial Support: Details of the monthly stipend available to participants.
- How do I Apply: Tips and details for applicants and an overview of the application process.
- How are Applicants Selected: How applicants are selected to participate in the program.
- More Information: Additional details and resources.
Program Description
The summer program at the NIAMS is a stimulating and rewarding experience that provides an opportunity for you to work side-by-side with some of the leading scientists in the world, in an environment devoted exclusively to biomedical research. Intramural investigators pursue diverse biomedical research projects that include fundamental analyses of protein structure and function, cell biology, signal transduction, gene regulation, tissue development and differentiation, and genetics and immunology. They also conduct research on the genetics, etiology, pathogenesis, and treatment of a variety of rheumatic, autoimmune, inflammatory, joint, skin, and muscle diseases.
Outstanding opportunities exist for undergraduate, graduate, and medical students contemplating a career in biomedical research or academic medicine.
Key Features
- Train in conducting cutting-edge basic, translational, and clinical research.
- Receive career mentoring from leading investigators.
- Learn new technologies, scientific investigative skills, research ethics, and the use of information technologies.
- Attend formal lectures and symposia dealing with the latest advances in health research.
- Network and exchange information with peers and other members of the NIH scientific community.
- Gain experience presenting scientific results at journal clubs, lab seminars, the Annual NIAMS Intramural Research Program Retreat, and the Annual NIH Summer Research Poster Day.
Am I Eligible?
The Summer Internship Program in Biomedical Research is for undergraduates and students in professional programs (M.D., Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D., D.D.S., Pharm. D., etc.) who meet the following requirements:
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- A student or prospective student:
- Enrolled at least half-time in an accredited U.S. college/university/medical school/dental school. OR
- Accepted for fall admission to an accredited U.S. college/university/medical school/dental school.
- Able to commit eight consecutive weeks to the program, starting in early June. Students are expected to work full time in the lab. Vacation time is not permitted.
Training Period
Summer internships begin in early June, depending on your schedule and that of the lab you will be working with. You must commit to eight consecutive weeks.
Financial Support
Funding rates are based on experience and determined annually. Rates from last year’s program are listed below for reference (effective 2024).
| Education Level Completed | Monthly Stipend |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate: After 1 year | $3,010 |
| Undergraduate: After 2 years | $3,150 |
| Undergraduate: After >= 3 years | $3,310 |
| Graduate: Less than 1 year | $3,480 |
| Graduate: After 1 year | $3,660 |
| Graduate: After 2 years | $3,910 |
| Graduate: After >= 3 years | $4,190 |
How do I Apply?
- Explore NIAMS Intramural Labs and Branches or review research areas to identify laboratories that interest you. Note that we are located on the Bethesda Campus.
- Prepare your application, which should include the following:
- Curriculum vitae or resume.
- List of your publications.
- Personal statement describing your research interests, career goals, and the scientific methodologies or disease/organ systems that interest you.
- Include information on past research experience, science awards, honors, student programs and participation in scientific meetings, if applicable.
- Names and contact information for two references.
3. Submit your application online through the OITE Application Portal, make sure to indicate NIAMS as an institute of interest in your personal statement and in the "Other Information" section. Applications are accepted from November to February. Apply early for ample consideration. Admissions are considered on a rolling basis.
Need more tips? Check out this application overview video.
Tips and Considerations
- Proofread your application.
- Write a strong personal statement describing your interest in health-related research, future academic plans, and reasons for seeking an internship at the NIH.
- Be sure to indicate NIAMS - The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases - as a top institute of interest. Mention us and any specific labs in your personal statement and the "Other Information" fields on the application.
How Are Applicants Selected?
Summer interns are selected by a committee and finalized by the NIAMS CDOB on a rolling basis. Selections are made based on the information supplied on the candidate’s application.
Candidates interested in working in specific laboratories or research areas within NIAMS should indicate their preferences on the application. Please do not contact laboratories directly.
The NIAMS CDOB office will inform candidates of their selection. Successful candidates will be required to submit the following documentation prior to beginning their training:
- Official college, or graduate school transcripts.
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status. U.S. citizens may submit a copy of their birth certificate or passport. Permanent residents will need to provide a copy of their alien registration card.
More Information
- Article: 2023 NIAMS Interns Return to In-person Research in Labs
- Spotlight on Research: Skin Features Provide an Early Clue to the Diagnosis of VEXAS Syndrome
Article featuring the research of a former summer student, Isabella Tan, who was first author on a paper in JAMA Dermatology.
