The NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) offers talented scientists a chance to do research with NASA experts at NASA Centers or affiliated research institutes. The fully funded fellowship program supports research that helps NASA’s missions in space science, Earth science, aeronautics, exploration, and astrobiology. It welcomes U.S. and international applicants who want to work in a top research environment.
NPP Fellowships last up to three years and provide a generous stipend, travel budget, and health insurance support. Researchers within five years of earning their PhD can apply as Postdoctoral Fellows. Those with doctorates earned more than five years ago may apply as Senior Fellows.
The program offers unique opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects with NASA’s scientists. You can participate in research in various fields, such as astrophysics, planetary science, aeronautics, and technology development, helping to advance space exploration and scientific knowledge.
Quick Overview of the NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) 2025
- Host Country: United States
- Host Organization: NASA Centers and NASA-affiliated institutes
- Deadline: March 1, July 1, November 1 (annual cycles)
- Duration: Up to 3 years
- Fields: Space science, Earth science, aeronautics, astrobiology, technology development, planetary science, and more
- Stipend: Starting at $70,000 per year for Postdoctoral Fellows
- Additional Support: $10,000 annual travel allowance, relocation allowance, health insurance support
- Eligibility: PhD holders within 5 years (Postdoctoral Fellow) or more than 5 years (Senior Fellow), U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or eligible foreign nationals
Perks of the NASA Research Fellowships 2025
- Competitive yearly stipend starting at $70,000
- Annual travel allowance of $10,000 for conferences and research trips
- Relocation assistance for moving to NASA Centers or affiliated institutes
- Financial help for health insurance premiums through the program
- Fellowships are renewable up to three years for continued research
- Access to NASA facilities and collaboration with leading scientists
- Opportunity to work on projects critical to NASA’s missions
- Professional development and career advancement support
Benefits of the NASA Postdoctoral Program 2025
- Gain experience in world-class research environments
- Collaborate with top NASA scientists and engineers
- Enhance your academic profile with NASA-backed research
- Increase chances for future research and academic careers
- Broaden your skills in interdisciplinary and space-related science
- Receive mentorship and network within NASA’s scientific community
- Benefit from full stipend and travel funding to focus on your research
- Contribute to discoveries that expand human knowledge of space and Earth
Exclusions of the NASA Postdoctoral Program 2025
- The program does not cover family travel or living expenses beyond the stipend
- Health insurance support is partial; Fellows must pay the remaining premium
- Applicants who do not meet citizenship or visa requirements are not eligible
- You must relocate to the NASA Center or institute; virtual or remote fellowships are not supported
- Research must align with NASA’s mission and be approved by NASA advisors
- Fellows cannot hold additional paid employment during the fellowship
Eligibility Criteria for the Fully Funded Fellowship Program in the US 2025
- Completed a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree before starting the fellowship
- Postdoctoral Fellows: Doctorate received within the last 5 years
- Senior Fellows: Doctorate received 5 or more years ago
- U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or foreign nationals eligible for a J-1 visa
- Must relocate to a NASA Center, NASA Headquarters, or an affiliated research institute
- Must remain full-time and fully engaged during fellowship appointment
- Must submit official doctoral transcripts (not required for Senior Fellows)
- Must have three letters of recommendation (one from thesis advisor if applicable)
- Must comply with health insurance and program requirements
Important Dates for the Fellowships for International Students 2025
- Application Deadlines: March 1, July 1, November 1 (annually)
- Review Period: 2 to 3 months after the deadline
- Notification: Applicants informed 2-3 months post-deadline
- Fellowship Start Date: Varies by NASA Center and appointment approval
How to Apply to the NASA Postdoctoral Fellowships 2025
- Visit the Official NPP website and register on the applicant portal, Zintellect.
- Search for research opportunities matching your expertise and interest.
- Contact the NASA advisor for your chosen research opportunity to discuss your proposal.
- Prepare a detailed research proposal in accordance with NASA’s format and guidelines.
- Complete the online application form and upload your research proposal (PDF), transcripts, and other documents.
- Arrange for three letters of recommendation to be submitted before the deadline.
- Submit your complete application before the cycle deadline (March 1, July 1, or November 1).
- Await notification and, if shortlisted, prepare for interviews or additional information requests.
Required Documents for the Fully Funded Research Fellowships 2025
- Official doctoral degree transcripts (required for Postdoctoral Fellows)
- Research proposal in PDF (up to 15 pages, formatted as per guidelines)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
- Three letters of recommendation (submitted electronically)
- Proof of citizenship or visa eligibility
- Health insurance information upon award acceptance
Official Website | Current Fellowship Opportunities | Apply Now
