CDC Environmental Health and Risk Communication Fellowship
Application Deadline
9/25/2026 3:00:00 PM Eastern Time Zone
Description
*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 works to protect 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 critical science and provides health information that protects our nation against expensive and dangerous health threats, and responds when these arise.
Project Description: This opportunity focuses on emergency and environmental risk communication within public health settings at the National Center for Environmental Health and Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (NCEH/ATSDR). Under the guidance of a mentor, participants will engage in research and training activities related to communication strategies used to convey environmental health and emergency response information to diverse audiences and priority populations. The research experience may include participation in partnership and outreach activities, development and evaluation of public health communication materials, and exploration of qualitative research approaches used to assess communication effectiveness. Participants may also gain exposure to Joint Information Center (JIC) communication practices and interdisciplinary approaches used during emergency response communication activities.
Learning Objectives: Through this mentored learning experience, you will develop knowledge of Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication (CERC) principles and their application in environmental public health contexts. You will strengthen skills in plain language communication, audience-centered message development, and adaptation of public health information for web, print, and digital platforms intended for varied audiences. You will also gain experience with qualitative research and evaluation approaches, including interpretation of feedback from listening sessions, social media engagement, and other communication indicators to inform public health messaging strategies. In addition, you will build familiarity with emergency communication coordination processes, including communication activities associated with a Joint Information Center (JIC) during emergency response scenarios.
Mentor(s): The mentor for this opportunity is Vivi Siegel (evj0@cdc.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s).
Anticipated Appointment Start Date: August 17, 2026. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.
Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for one year 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.
Qualifications
The qualified candidate should have received a master's degree in one of the relevant fields. Degree must have been received within the past five years.
Preferred skills:
- Excellent interpersonal, writing, and editing skills, with the flexibility to adapt to shifting priorities and the fast-paced demands of emergency response.
Point of Contact
Eligibility Requirements
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
- Degree: Master's Degree received within the last 60 month(s).