Our program allows for a cohort of 3 postdoctoral Scholars appointed each year, which will provide a good balance between creating a community of fellows and the program’s ability to provide personalized training and mentoring. Scholars will be selected based on academic achievement and potential, as well as on the strength of the potential mentor-mentee match.

Eligibility information

This NIH K12 supported postdoctoral training grant is limited to individuals 1) with less than 24 months of post-doctoral training at the time of application, and 2) that are a citizen or a non-citizen national of the United States or have been lawfully admitted for permanent residence at the time of appointment. A graduate degree in STEM is required prior to starting the training.

We run two application cycles per year, February 15 and August 15. 

The application materials include:

1. CV (Curriculum Vitae) - Please include the following sections in your document: I. Present position and contact information, II. Education, III. Professional Experience, IV. Scholarship, V. Teaching, and VI. Service (Word doc or PDF). *Please do not include pictures*
    
2. Personal Statement (up to 2 pages) - Please address: a) Previous research accomplishments and involvement in your scientific community; interest in teaching and mentoring students; b) How participation in IRACDA at OHSU would further your career; c) And how your background or experiences will increase the diversity of the community of scholars at OHSU.
    
3. Dissertation Abstract
    
4. Research Plan (2 pages, co-written with OHSU mentor)
    
5. Equitable and Inclusive Research and Teaching Competencies Essay (1 page) - Provide evidence that you are able to, or have the potential to, conduct research and teach in a way that is broadly accessible. Consider how you value equity and inclusion in research and teaching, and if these principles are important in STEM. Demonstrate your commitment to creating an inclusive, accessible, and equitable space in both research and teaching. As you write your essay, it is important to a) Provide Specific Examples: Include concrete examples of how you have promoted equity and inclusion in your work. This could be in the form of mentoring, inclusive teaching practices (either formal or informal settings are okay), research design, community engagement, or participation in diversity initiatives, to name a few examples. b) Use a Reflective Tone: Acknowledge any learning moments or challenges you’ve faced in creating inclusive environments and how they’ve shaped your understanding. c) Align with Grant Objectives: Tie your essay to the goal of IRACDA, which is to develop a diverse group of highly trained scientists to become leaders in biomedical research and scholarship. Think about our meaningful partnership with Pacific University.  You will want to present a comprehensive case for your commitment to equitable and inclusive competencies in research and teaching, showing that you are dedicated to fostering a supportive environment for all involved in biomedical research and scholarship. 
    
6. Mentor Plan (letter of support from OHSU faculty mentor) - The letter of support from your faculty mentor should detail how they will assist you with your research training, career development training, and how they will support your teaching training. Additionally, the mentor should address their plan to help you with long-term career development - for example, a brief explanation of how the mentor will support you in advancing beyond the postdoctoral training period.
    
7. Two Recommendation Letters

If you have any questions about the application process, please reach out to iracda@ohsu.edu for assistance.