Postdoctoral Research Program

Launch Your Research Career at INL

INL's Postdoctoral Research Associate Program offers opportunities to collaborate on cutting-edge science, develop technical expertise and contribute to national priorities.

Gain hands-on R&D and lab experience before entering the workforce​

Postdoctoral appointments offer a mentored research experience that enables hands-on research and development and the highest quality training to prepare for the transition to research independence. INL postdoctoral researchers perform in a rich science and technology environment, present and publish research, contribute to the overall research efforts of the laboratory, advance knowledge in the areas of basic and applied research, and strengthen our national scientific and technical capabilities. The postdoc program is managed by Research Excellence Programs.

Required Qualifications 

  • Ph.D. in a related discipline, completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous five years
  • A developing publication record
  • Some positions require U.S. citizenship or green card holder status

Named Distinguished Postdoctoral Research Associate

The INL Named Distinguished Postdoctoral Research Associate Program is designed to attract, recruit, develop and inspire early-career researchers who have the potential to develop into INL’s future scientific and technical leaders. These appointments are highly competitive and are intended to recognize and provide Named Distinguished Postdoctoral Research Associates with a competitive award, research experience, mentorship and training to develop their capabilities. The engagement of early-career research talent is critical to the success of INL’s mission areas.

Postdoctoral Association at INL

The Postdoctoral Association at INL (PA-INL) was established in 2024 as a chapter of the National Postdoctoral Association.

The Association aims to enhance the professional and personal growth of the INL postdoc community by:

Offering professional development opportunities

Organizing social events
Improving communication amongst postdocs
Implementing special projects