Job Description

The NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) offers unique research opportunities to highly-talented U.S. and non-U.S. scientists to engage in ongoing NASA research projects at a NASA Center, NASA Headquarters, or at a NASA-affiliated research institute. These fellowships, awarded annually up to three years, are competitive and are designed to advance NASA’s missions in space science, Earth science, aeronautics, space operations, exploration systems, and astrobiology.

Annual NASA Postdoctoral Program application deadlines are March 1, July 1, and November 1. Scientists within five years of receiving their degrees are eligible to apply as a postdoctoral Fellow; scientists who have received their doctorates more than five years previously may apply as a Senior Fellow. After the first year as a Postdoctoral Fellow, scientists interested in management may apply to the Postdoctoral Management Program at NASA Headquarters.

Learn more about NASA Postdoctoral Program, including how to apply, eligibility and requirements, benefits, and what to expect during the application process.

November 2025 application cycle is now open

Application deadline is Saturday, November 1, 2025 at 6 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time.

Current Fellowship Opportunities | NASA Postdoctoral Program

How to Apply to the NASA Postdoctoral Program

Annual application cycle deadlines for the NASA Postdoctoral Program are March 1, July 1, and November 1. The Astrobiology Program accepts applications only during the March and November rounds, but will not be accepting applicants during the cycle (round) that closes on November 1, 2025.

Note: You may submit only ONE application for ONE research opportunity per application cycle.

Non-U.S. Citizens

Note that there are Visa requirements that must be met in order for non-U.S. citizens to participate in an NPP Fellowship (please review the Information for Non-U.S. Citizens page).

How to Apply | NASA Postdoctoral Program