About the opportunity
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is offering a research fellowship through the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) in Atlanta, Georgia. Participants will work within the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion in the Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity (DNPAO). The fellowship focuses on the ‘Active People, Healthy Nation’ initiative, aiming to increase physical activity across the United States through evidence-based policy, programs, and community-friendly design. Fellows will engage in research, translation, and dissemination activities, including supporting updates to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans and the National Physical Activity Plan.
Funding and benefits
- Monthly stipend (rate varies based on factors such as education, experience, and location).
- Opportunity to obtain health insurance through ORISE.
Who can apply?
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must have obtained a master's or doctoral degree in Life Health and Medical Sciences or Social and Behavioral Sciences within the last 60 months.
- Alternatively, currently pursuing a master's or doctoral degree in these disciplines and anticipating graduation by January 27, 2027.
- Must not have been previously employed by the CDC or by a contractor working directly for the CDC (exceptions may be granted for those who obtained a new STEM degree).
Required documents
- Application form
- Transcripts
- Current resume/CV (including academic history, employment history, relevant experiences, and publication list)
- One educational or professional recommendation
When to apply
- Application deadline: September 11, 2026, at 3:00:00 PM Eastern Time Zone.
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Anticipated appointment start date: September 31, 2026 (flexible).
How to apply
- Scroll to the bottom of the opportunity page and click 'APPLY'.
- Submit a complete application including transcripts, a current resume/CV, and one educational or professional recommendation.
Additional information
- Participants do not become employees of CDC, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits.
- Proof of health insurance is required for participation; health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.
- Successful applicants must comply with Environmental, Safety and Health (ES&H) requirements of the hosting facility, including COVID-19 requirements.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- U.S. citizens who have earned a Master's or Doctoral degree in Life Health, Medical, or Social and Behavioral Sciences within the last 60 months.
- Researchers interested in evidence-based policy and community-friendly design to promote physical activity.
- Those who have not previously been employed by the CDC.
What should you think carefully about?
- Participants are not CDC employees and do not receive employment-related benefits.
- The role is on-site in Atlanta, GA, requiring relocation if not already local.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This is a prime opportunity for recent PhD or Master's graduates to gain high-level research experience and contribute to the national Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.
Our take
A prestigious research fellowship for U.S. citizens with recent advanced degrees in health or social sciences who want to impact national health policy.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verified




