The Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) program is a two-year leadership development program managed by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Targeted and Designated PMFs at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) benefit from the expert guidance and mentorship facilitated by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and NIAID PMF programs, developing independence and leadership skills as they work alongside NIAID leadership. NIAID offers fellows the opportunity to build valuable skills by rotating through administrative and program offices, to experience positions in budgeting, data analysis, global research, scientific program oversight, communications, and more! NIAID’s unique mandate and diverse research portfolio ensure the Program is a place for fellows from all backgrounds.
The NIAID Designated PMF Experience
Entirely Rotational Program
The rotational fellowship experience is a unique chance to "choose your own adventure" and explore a variety of business functions, scientific priorities, and mission areas at NIAID. It is a great opportunity for anyone interested in a career in public service at the intersection of science and public health, especially those unsure what role is the best fit for them.
Vibrant Current and PMF Alumni Community
At the end of the two-year fellowship, PMFs will have formed connections with a rich variety of people across NIAID and NIH. In addition, NIAID’s PMF alumni community has numerous opportunities to connect throughout the year. No matter what career path PMFs choose at the end of their fellowship journey, this broad network will continue to be an invaluable resource for future professional development.
Work with NIAID Leadership
Throughout their fellowship, Designated PMFs regularly meet with Dr. Jill Harper, who herself started her career in federal government through a fellowship program. This unique opportunity offers fellows a “birds-eye view” of the institute, helping them build connections with other high-level leaders, foster organizational awareness, and identify rotational opportunities.
Eligibility and Application Process
Applications to NIAID’s PMF program are received through NIH’s recruitment announcements for PMF finalists. For information about applications to the PMF program and eligibility, please see the NIH and OPM program pages.
NIAID PMF Spotlight
Alicen Spaulding, Ph.D., MPH
NIAID Designated PMF, Class of 2013
Current Role: Senior Advisor and Team Lead, PREMISE, Vaccine Research Center
“My experience as a PMF gave me the opportunity to watch and train with some of the best leaders in the world.”
Karthik Yarlagadda, Ph.D.
NIAID PMF, Class of 2023
Current Role: Regional Officer, Office of Global Research
“The PMF was a critical experience in my career development; the fellowship provided exposure to a range of offices, projects, initiatives, and leaders across the government that helped me identify what kind of work I could make a positive contribution to with my prior skills and knowledge, as well as highlighting areas for future growth.”
Catherine Sodroski, Ph.D.
NIAID Designated PMF, Class of 2025
“Being a designated PMF at NIAID has been a wonderful experience! The rotation format provides a unique opportunity to explore different NIAID offices and there is tremendous support given to fellows to help us thrive, do meaningful work, and build a community here.”
Daniel Charlton
NIAID Targeted PMF, Class of 2025
“As a targeted PMF serving as a Regional Officer - Asia in NIAID’s Office of Global Research, I liaise with representatives from U.S Government entities, foreign governments, and other partners on scientific engagements and support the office’s efforts to monitor developments and review NIAID-funded activities in more than 125 countries. Although it is unsurprising that NIAID is filled with smart, organized, and driven people, I have also found the institutional culture to be encouraging, collaborative, and innovative.”