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General Program Information
Goals
Why Choose FDA?
Training
FRST Program Information
Contact Us
Resources
 

• General Program Information

  • The FDA Research and Science Traineeship (FRST) Program is conducted under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetics Act (FD&C Act) (21 U.S.C. 379l(b)) and provides practical scientific training for non-employee pre-and post-doctoral scientists and physicians having a background or interest in the natural sciences, e.g.  biology, chemistry, the social sciences, e.g. psychology, sociology, the formal sciences, e.g. mathematics, statistics, or the applied sciences, e.g. engineering, animal science, or any other field of science related to FDA mission programs.
  • The Office of Scientific Professional Development (OSPD) located within the Office of the Commissioner (OC), Office of the Chief Scientist (OCS) administers the program for the Agency in collaboration with the FDA Centers/Offices. 

• Goals

  • The goals of the FDA Research and Science Traineeship Program for trainees include:  
    1. scientific research training; 
    2. professional development, 
    3. hands-on experience and contribution to the research needs of the FDA; and 
    4. preparation for government, academic, and industry careers in fields supportive of the FDA mission.

• Why choose FDA?

  • Everyday FDA scientists carry out scientific research and regulatory actions that have a profound impact on the health and well-being of all Americans. They work hard to make sure that the foods Americans eat are safe and healthy, and that the medical and veterinary products they use are safe and effective. FDA scientists also use their expertise to promote public health and foster therapeutic innovations. Did you know that FDA-regulated products account for 20 cents of every dollar that American consumers spend? 
  • The work we do every day at FDA relies on STEM External Link Disclaimer

• Training 

  • All trainees are required to complete research projects under the guidance of an FDA mentor who is a subject matter expert. Mentors will be responsible for guiding the progress of the FRST assignment/training project and evaluating the Trainee throughout the assignment’s duration. 
  • The FRST Program provides practical training for students, recent graduates and post doctorates to engage in project-specific FDA research and developmental activities. Such practical training experience shall be derived through the conduct and support of scientific projects. All studies/projects shall be relevant or pertinent to the needs and mission of the FDA and as such will contribute to the future regulatory and scientific public health workforce.  
  • As a participant in the program, you will be training with an FDA scientist to carry out scientific research that has a profound impact on the health and well-being of all Americans.

• FRST Program Information

  • Eligibility Requirements for Program
  • Program Requirements
  • Application Information
  • Stipend Information
  • Duration of Assignments
  • Selection Information
  • Participating FDA Center/Office Information
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Contact Us

  • Questions? Please reach out to us.
    1. Program email address: FDATraineeshipProgram@fda.hhs.gov.

• Resources

  • FDA STEM Outreach, Education and Engagement | FDA
  • Scientific Internships, Fellowships / Trainees and Non-U.S. Citizens | FDA
  • Health Care Plan Finder