MD-PhD Postbac Fellows

About the Program

MD-PhD programs are looking for exceptional candidates who are ready for medical training and laboratory research. Through our two-year, structured training program, Postbac Fellows can immerse themselves in independent research projects with direct ties to human health and disease: from addiction to obesity, from cancer to fertility. 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
• 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.

Eligibility

The Postbac at JAX Program supports academically ambitious individuals considering enrollment in an MD-PhD training program.

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 (e.g., BA, BS, BSc) by June, with a strong foundation of coursework in the biological sciences, neuroscience, computer science, statistics and/or other relevant field.
• are US workers, or international students completing their undergraduate degree at an accredited US academic institution who can obtain Optional Practical Training (F-1) status through their undergraduate institution.
• have a compelling reason as to why additional research experience is needed prior to pursuing MD-PhD studies.

How to Apply

Applications for the 2025 admissions cycle are closed.

During an open admissions cycle, 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 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. At a minimum, submit two letters: one letter from someone who can speak to your academic performance in an academic setting (i.e., course instructor), and one letter from a person with whom you have a non-academic relationship, (i.e., work supervisor, or mentor), who can speak to your motivation for and potential to succeed in a biomedical career.
   
   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 [email protected]. All letters of reference must be received by February 14.

Send questions regarding the MD-PhD Postbac Fellows program and application process to [email protected].