NASA invites both early-career and senior scientists to explore fellowship opportunities in its postdoctoral program and share in NASA's mission to develop advancements in science, technology, aeronautics and space exploration.
NPP offers unique research opportunities to highly-talented U.S. and non-U.S. scientists to engage in ongoing NASA research projects with top scientists at a NASA Center, NASA Headquarters or at a NASA-affiliated research institute. These one- to three-year fellowships are competitive and are designed to advance NASA’s missions in space science, earth science, aeronautics, space operations, exploration systems and astrobiology.
Annual NPP application deadlines are March 1, July 1, and November 1.
Scientists within five years of having received their degrees are eligible to apply as a postdoctoral fellow, and scientists who have received their doctorates more than five years previously may apply as a senior fellow. After the first year as a postdoctoral fellow, scientists interested in management may apply to the postdoctoral management program at NASA Headquarters
Stipend rates for these NASA postdoctoral fellows currently start at $63,000 per year. Supplements are provided for higher cost-of-living areas and certain academic specialties. The stipend amount for a senior postdoctoral fellow is based on the location of the appointment, experience (number of years beyond the doctoral degree) and career achievement, including academic rank and professional title. Available benefits include health insurance supplements, professional development resources, a research allowance up to $10,000 per year and relocation reimbursement.