How to Apply

The NHLBI T32 Pathobiology of Occlusive Vascular Disease welcomes applications from eligible postdoctoral researches interested in advancing their career in cardiovascular and metabolic disease and research that encompasses heart disease, arrythmias, atherosclerosis, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, cardiorenal dysfunction, neurocardiovascular regulation, and infectious heart disease. The program provides an interdisciplinary training environment that emphasizes scientific excellence, individualized mentorship, professional development, and preparation of independent careers vascular research.

Required Application Materials

Applicants must submit the following documents in PDF format as part of their application:

1. Three Letters of Support

• Primary mentor letter: One letter must be provided by the applicant’s primary research mentor, confirming their commitment to sponsoring the trainee and providing research supervision, mentorship, and support throughout the T32 appointment.
• Two additional letters: Two additional letters should be provided by previous mentors or individuals who you have worked closely with to provide further insight into the applicant’s academic background, research capabilities, professional development, and potential for a successful career in cancer research.

2. Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover Letter

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Up-to-date relevant education, research experience, publications, presentations, awards, fellowships, and other academic or professional accomplishments.
• Cover Letter: Summarize research background, significant accomplishments, interest in the T32 program, and short and long-term career goals. The letter should also explain how participation in the program will support the applicant’s professional development and future career in vascular research.

3. Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency

Acceptable documentation may include:

• U.S. Passport
• U.S. Birth Certificate
• Permanent Resident Card

4. Copy of PhD Certificate

Applicants must submit a copy of their PhD, MD, or equivalent in medicine, dentistry, biomedical sciences, and veterinary medicine to document completion of their doctoral training. The degree documentation will be used to support verification of the applicant’s educational qualifications for the postdoctoral appointment.

5. Research Project Application Packet

Applicants must submit a research project packet describing the proposed research to be conducted during their T32 appointment. The research proposal does not have a specific page-limit, but we ask that you keep it as concise as possible while still addressing the key components of the proposed research, and must include:

• Project title: Concise and descriptive title reflecting the focus of the proposed research.
• Significance: An explanation of the scientific problem or knowledge gap being addressed and the importance of the proposed research to vascular disease.
• Hypothesis: A clear statement of the central hypothesis guiding the proposed investigation.
• Specific aims: Description of major research objectives and approaches that will be used to address the hypothesis.
• Overall research goals: Summary of anticipated outcomes and how the proposed research will contribute to the applicant’s scientific development and long-term career objectives.

Mentorship Requirements

Applicants must find a primary and secondary research mentor to support their scientific progress, professional development, and preparation for an independent research career.

1. Primary Mentor

The primary research mentor is expected to support the trainee’s research progress, encourage the development of critical scientific and analytical skills, and provide guidance on professional development and long-term career planning. A letter of support from the primary research mentor is also required as part of the application packet.

2. Secondary Mentor

In addition to a primary research mentor, each applicant must identify a secondary mentor who can provide supplemental guidance and support throughout the training appointment. They serve as an additional source for the trainee, offering advice on research progress, scientific development, and career planning that helps broaden the trainee’s professional network and provides another source of guidance when the primary mentor is unavailable.

The secondary mentor is not required to conduct research with the trainee or work in the same laboratory. Their role is intended to compliment the primary mentoring relationship and support the trainee’s overall development.