Question: Research Postbaccalaureate Programs

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LowGradeInflammation

yeah, it's low grade alright
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Hi!

I've received some information from various sources (primarily other postbacs and trainees in the NIH right now) about the NIH IRTA program and how they're potentially suspending OITE/IRTA hiring indefinitely. These sources have also indicated that the OITE now encourages potential trainees to pursue external options and opportunities aggressively.

I have a slightly strange question going forward:

The vast majority of research postbac programs (specifically AAMC PREP-based programs) are DEI-based or at the very least contain some kind of DEI language. As we all know, DEI programs are at risk of losing funding due to the new administration. In addition to this, I'm also not from a ethnic or socioeconomic group that's traditionally considered by DEI programs, which limits my options since most AAMC PREP programs have strict requirements for traditionally underrepresented groups. My original plan was to apply for the NIH IRTA program (as I already have a number of decently strong connections in a specific NIH IC), but that seems to be up in the air for now (or at least until 2/1/2025).

Would reaching out to past institutions (not the NIH) work out, given my MD/PhD goals? For example, there is one institution right beside my house that I've worked for in the past that I can potentially apply as a research assistant for/even work without salary for. Again, I hope this isn't a weird question, I've just been thrown for a loop regarding current events and am reconsidering my options.

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This post may be more appropriate for the Research Scientists subforum. I would encourage you to reach out to any lab with funding availability to support you as a research assistant, provided their funding is not somehow in jeopardy due to a freeze on federal grants. There are also private research organizations who may have a similar research postbac program available, but that is also complicated since most PI's have some source of federal grant funding to support their research.
 
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