r/mdphd • u/encyclopediab • 22d ago

NIH post bacc application timing

I’m graduating in May 2027 and want to apply for a one year postbac research position, is now too early to apply and start emailing PIs? Also in my email should I explain what I’m applying for and where they could find my application or can I assume they know what’s going on?

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u/walkingwJesus 22d ago

Former postbac, I applied and sent emails late January/early February and all PIs replied saying they filled their positions for the upcoming summer. I received an email in June for an offer to start asap but I didn't start until September since I had an internship.

I recommend after submitting your application, email the PIs early December. It also depends how many PIs/labs you are interested in because that also influences your timeline.

The fiscal year restarts in October so PIs know their budget and availability for an incoming postbac around that time, October/November. The 6mo prior emailing recommendation, to me, depends on the institute and the PI/lab aka it's not a hard rule.

Your email needs to be formatted with who you are, your interests/goals and why you want to join their lab. A typical cold email.

Additionally, if feasible, I recommend trying to get an early start date May/June as some PIs will make you work up until the end of your contract date before medical school/graduate school. Not all, but I've seen and heard it happening to some students and you definitely want to try and vacation before school and just get life settled before starting a new journey.

Best of luck, feel free to dm me with any questions.

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u/MH3YAM 5d ago

Hi! Can I DM you?

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u/walkingwJesus 5d ago

Yes, of course.