July 1 NPP Deadline Cancelled. Next NPP Application Deadline November 1, 2025.

The NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) offers US and international scientists the opportunity to advance their research while contributing to NASA’s scientific goals. The NPP supports fundamental science, explores the undiscovered, promotes intellectual growth, and encourages scientific connections.

Selected by a competitive peer-review process, NPP Fellows complete one- to three-year Fellowship appointments that advance NASA’s missions in Earth science, planetary science, heliophysics, astrophysics, biological and physical science, aeronautics and engineering, human exploration systems, space operations, space technology, and astrobiology. Search for NPP research opportunities here: NPP Research Opportunities.

Applicants must have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in hand before beginning the fellowship, but may apply while completing the degree requirements. Please see current eligibility requirements. Stipends start at $70,000 per year, with supplements for higher cost-of-living areas and for certain academic specialties. Financial assistance is available for relocation and health insurance, and $10,000 per year is provided for travel and professional development.

Applications are accepted three times each year: 1 March, 1 July, and 1 November.

For further information and to apply, visit the main applicants web page. Please direct questions to npp@orau.org.