Postbac Researchers

About the Program

This program seeks recent college graduates for two-year postbac fellowships in genomics and data science. The program will focus on research training opportunities and career development programs tailored for trainees from historically marginalized communities who aspire to go on to graduate studies and careers in genomics, genome technologies and data science. Through supportive mentorship, trainees will each become valuable members of a PI's lab contributing to the research program, and over time they will undertake independent projects. Trainees will receive individualized guidance regarding the graduate school application and admission process. The program also supports the professional development of each trainee through:

• Development of an independent research project
• Access to JAX courses and conferences
• A travel stipend to attend a scientific conference
• Training in genomics
• Personalized planning for the graduate school application process
• Feedback on essay drafts and interview practice sessions
• Financial support for MCAT preparation and test registration
• Opportunities to strengthen scientific communication through Trainee Talks and the annual JAX Scientific Symposium

Participants also benefit from:

• JAX’s reputation as a leader in genetics & genomics research
• Dedicated, world-class faculty
• State-of-the-art research resources
• Comprehensive scientific services
• Vibrant community of doctoral students and postdocs

Program participants earn an annual stipend of over $41,000 and health benefits to defray cost-of-living expenses and training costs.

The JAX Diversity Action Plan (DAP) Postbaccalaureate Program in Genomics (gDAP) is supported by NHGRI and JAX Genomic Education.

Program Faculty

Meet the faculty you can do research with as a postbac researcher at JAX.

               Meet the Faculty               

Eligibility

The Postbac at JAX program supports academically ambitious individuals committed to careers in biomedicine who identify with groups currently underrepresented in the biomedical sciences. Eligible applicants: 

• have completed a Bachelor's degree (e.g., BA, BS, BSc) within the past 12 months, or will complete a Bachelor's degree by June, with a strong foundation of coursework in the biological sciences, neuroscience, computer science and/or mathematics
• are US citizens and/or eligible for NIH funding
• identify with one of more of the following: (a) a member of a group underrepresented in biomedical research (URM) as detailed by the National Institutes of Health, (i.e., African American, Latinx, Native American, Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander); (b) have a disability that inhibits one or more major life activities; or (c) come from a disadvantaged background, including individuals who meet at least two of the following characteristics detailed by the NIH (NOT-OD-20-031)
• have compelling reasons as to why additional research experience and professional development is needed prior to pursuing graduate school

How to Apply

The 2023 recruiting cycle closed on April 15, 2023. The application for the 2024 program will open in the fall of 2023.

Submit the following documents through the online application:

1. Your CV or résumé indicating educational, training, and employment histories.
2. Academic transcripts from all undergraduate academic institutions attended. Note that unofficial copies are accepted, and will be verified if selected.
3. A 300-500 word statement describing previous experiences in biomedical research. Did you complete an independent research project in college? Did you participate in a biomedical research experience as an undergraduate? If not, why? If so, why are you seeking additional (or different) biomedical research experience through this postbaccalaureate training program?
4. A 200-250 word description of your interest in research.
5. Three brief statements responding to each of the following prompts (max. 300 words each):
   • What biological, research, or health-related phenomenon fascinates you?
   • Share an experience that demonstrates your ability to think creatively and/or use problem solving skills to address a problem or phenomenon.
   • Talk about a time when you stood up for something you believed in or when you exhibited resilience in the face of adversity.
6. The names and contact details of 3 people who will write letters of reference on your behalf.
   
   Note that after listing your references and submitting your application, referees will receive a request directly from the application system, and will receive instructions regarding letter submission. If your referee does not receive the letter request (which can sometimes get caught by SPAM filters), you can request that they instead submit their letter via email to PBJ@jax.org. All letters of reference must be received by April 15.

Send questions regarding the Ph.D. Postbac Researchers program and application process to PBJ@jax.org.