CDC Post-Master's Fellowship in Health Communication

*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis.

CDC Office and Location: A research opportunity is available in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) located in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is one of the major operation components of the Department of Health and Human Services. CDC protects America from health, safety and security threats, both foreign and in the U.S. Whether diseases start at home or abroad, are chronic or acute, curable or preventable, human error or deliberate attack, CDC fights disease and supports communities and citizens to do the same. CDC increases the health security of our nation. As the nation’s health protection agency, CDC saves lives and protects people from health threats. To accomplish its mission, CDC conducts important science and provides health information that protects our nation against expensive and dangerous health threats, and responds when these arise.

The Public Health Infrastructure Center (PHIC), part of the CDC, is responsible for enhancing the United States’ public health infrastructure by providing systems, processes, and expertise across critical functional areas. PHIC acts to ensure that public health agencies at all levels have the capacity to deliver timely and effective public health services. Its mission includes coordinating relationships with jurisdictions, supporting funded partners, and developing strategic goals to improve public health outcomes. Communication is a vital part of these efforts. 

Research Project: We are seeking a creative and innovative fellow to gain experience on digital media, communications, writing, and editing. You will train with our dedicated team of health communication staff. As a fellow, you will get practical, hands-on mentoring and experience researching, creating, writing, and editing health communication content for a variety of products and platforms. You will train with PHIC’s Office of Communication Science (OCS) to gain experience on a variety of projects including, but not limited to:

• Gain experience on communications, such as creative content, video materials, digital media assets, newsletters, feature articles, web content, social media content, and event announcements for multiple platforms.
• Build skills in data visualization, translation science, and strategic dissemination of scientific and program information.
• Learn to research and evaluate information sources to ensure the quality, relevance, and accuracy of communications content.
• Develop skills in crafting clear, concise messaging that supports center programs, initiatives, and organizational priorities.
• Gain experience editing and refining content in alignment with center style guidelines and audience needs.
• Strengthen collaboration and communication skills by learning from leadership, divisions, offices, and agency partners on internal and external communication initiatives.

Learning Objectives: You will gain experience under the guidance of a mentor collaborating with communication specialists, senior leaders and subject matter experts (SMEs) at CDC, with other federal agencies and public health partners. You will gain a broader knowledge of communication science. You may also learn from PHIC’s Policy and Partnership team, as well as CDC’s Office of Rural Health and Office of Tribal Affairs and Strategic Alliance.

Mentor(s): The mentor for this opportunity is Monique Ellis (IFV3@CDC.GOV). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s).

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: September 24, 2026. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.

Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of CDC and is contingent on the availability of funds.

Level of Participation: The appointment is full time.

Participant Stipend: Stipend rates may vary based on numerous factors, including opportunity, location, education, and experience. If you are interviewed, you can inquire about the exact stipend rate at that time and if selected, your appointment offer will include the monthly stipend rate.

Citizenship Requirements: This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens only.

ORISE Information: This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and CDC. Participants do not become employees of CDC, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.

The successful applicant(s) will be required to comply with Environmental, Safety and Health (ES&H) requirements of the hosting facility, including but not limited to, COVID-19 requirements (e.g. facial covering, physical distancing, testing, vaccination).

Questions: Please visit our Program Website. After reading, if you have additional questions about the application process please email CDCrpp@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.