NIH IRTA Application...too late?

[Zabobinator]

---

Members do not see this ad.

I just found out about the NIH Postbacc IRTA program in Bethesda. I'm really interested in applying and I'd be willing to work for 2 years, but I'm worried that it's too late to apply. I could probably finish the application and have all my LORs submitted by the end of this month but I'm not sure if it's worth it...?

Any advice? I know that they say to apply 3-6 months before you'd want to start and I would want to start late August or early September...

 

[cactus8910]

I'm currently an IRTA and my understanding is that most people start in June/July, shortly after graduation. These people had their applications in by February/March. However, some people do the summer program and then start as an IRTA, so it's possible that there will be some PI's looking for IRTAs to start late summer/early fall. It can't hurt to apply, but I wouldn't count on it. Once your application is complete, start emailing! That's the best way to find a position.

 

[areserine]

To add to that, some might just be looking now to fill a spot starting asap. It takes a month to get paperwork sorted, but just because you're applying late doesn't mean you're stuck with a position starting late. Do email PIs though, I wouldn't count on being found in the applicant pool, especially this late in the game.

 

[womanofscience]

If you can quickly get your application in, I'd say go for it! Most PIs want people who are very willing to commit two years.

I'd second the above though-be very proactive with contacting PIs!

 

[Zabobinator]

Thanks for the advice! 🙂