CDC Health Communications Training - Office of Laboratory Systems and Response

Organization Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Reference Code

CDC-2026-0016

Application Deadline 8/31/2026 3:00:00 PM Eastern Time Zone Description Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis. CDC Office and Location A fellowship opportunity is now available within the Office of Laboratory Systems and Response (OLSR), Office of the Director, Office of the Associate Director for Communications at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 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. Project Description This educational research opportunity within CDC’s Laboratory Systems and Response program focuses on the study and application of science communication, strategic outreach, and public health messaging approaches related to laboratory science, safety, and response readiness. Under the guidance of a mentor, you will participate in learning activities involving communication research, audience engagement strategies, and approaches for sharing scientific information through a variety of communication and media channels. You will gain exposure to interdisciplinary collaboration involving laboratory science, public health communication, and policy-related perspectives while building knowledge of how communication strategies can enhance awareness and understanding among diverse audiences. Learning Objectives Through this mentored learning experience, you will gain knowledge of science communication principles, strategic messaging approaches, and communication methods used within public health and laboratory settings. You will develop skills in evaluating communication strategies, examining audience engagement techniques, and exploring methods for translating scientific and technical information into accessible messaging for varied audiences. The opportunity will also provide experience collaborating with laboratory scientists, communication specialists, and policy-focused professionals to better understand how communication and outreach approaches contribute to public health preparedness and response activities. Mentor(s) The mentor for this opportunity is Nisha Moussakhani (View email address on click.appcast.io). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s). Anticipated Appointment Start Date September 1, 2026. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors. Appointment Length The appointment will initially be for three years, 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). Qualifications The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a master's degree in the one of the relevant fields (e.g. communication, health education, health promotion, or health policy degree). Degree must have been received within the past five years, or anticipated to be received by 12/31/2026. Preferred Skills A candidate who has been in science or the laboratory with combined skills with communication or policy experience is a plus. Point of Contact Rachel Eligibility Requirements Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only Degree: Master's Degree received within the last 60 months or anticipated to be received by 12/31/2026 12:00:00 AM. Discipline(s): Communications and Graphics Design (7 ) Communications Communications Theory Health Communications Mass Communications Media Studies Science Writing Computer, Information, and Data Sciences (7 ) Earth and Geosciences (1 ) Engineering (1 ) Environmental and Marine Sciences (1 ) Life Health and Medical Sciences (51 ) Mathematics and Statistics (3 ) Social and Behavioral Sciences (6 ) Affirmation I certify that I have not previously been employed by CDC or by a contractor working directly for CDC. I understand that CDC does not permit individuals with a prior employment relationship with CDC or its contractors to participate as trainees in the ORISE program. (Exceptions may be granted for individuals who, since the previous CDC employment, have obtained a new STEM degree which necessitates training in a new field.) #J-18808-Ljbffr Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education