The NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP), administered by ORAU, is offering competitive fellowships for early-career and senior scientists to conduct research at NASA centers across the United States. The next application deadline is 1 November 2026. Both U.S. citizens and international scientists are eligible to apply.
Fellowship Benefits
- Starting stipend of $70,000/year for early-career fellows (higher for senior fellows and high cost-of-living locations)
- $10,000/year travel and professional development allowance
- Health insurance supplement
- Relocation reimbursement
- Appointments of 1 to 3 years at NASA centers nationwide
Eligibility
- Open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and international scientists
- Must hold a PhD (or equivalent terminal degree) — may apply while completing degree requirements
- Must select a NASA research opportunity from the NPP portal and identify a NASA scientist as mentor
- Covers fields including astrophysics, earth science, heliophysics, planetary science, engineering, and more
Key Details
- Deadline: 1 November 2026 at 6:00 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time
- Competitive peer-review selection process
- Research takes place at NASA centers across the U.S.
How to Apply
- Browse open research opportunities and submit your application through the NPP portal
- Contact: npp@orau.org for questions
- Official website: NASA Postdoctoral Program – ORAU
The NPP is one of the most prestigious postdoctoral programs in science and technology globally, giving fellows the unique opportunity to advance NASA’s mission while building their own research careers at world-class facilities.
Always verify deadlines and details on the official NASA Postdoctoral Program website before applying.