CDC Environmental Health Strategic Communications Fellowship
Application Deadline
9/30/2026 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 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.
Research Project: This educational research opportunity within CDC's National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH) focuses on the application of strategic science communication, research translation, and public health storytelling methods related to environmental health programs and initiatives. Under the guidance of a mentor, you will participate in learning activities involving communication planning, audience engagement strategies, and the use of approved artificial intelligence (AI) tools to help review reports and other materials for public health impact themes and key takeaways.
Learning Objectives: The experience will provide opportunities to learn and apply approaches for translating scientific and programmatic information into accessible communication materials, including infographics, fact sheets, visual summaries, and other research translation products for varied audiences. You will also gain exposure to collaborative communication and training approaches designed to build practical skills in using public health narratives and data visualization techniques to enhance awareness of environmental health activities and outcomes.
Mentor(s): The mentor for this opportunity is Hope Roobol (vtt2@cdc.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s).
Anticipated Appointment Start Date: September 14, 2026. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.
Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for 4 months, 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 be currently pursuing a doctoral degree in the one of the relevant fields.
Preferred skills:
- Demonstrated visual public health research translation and graphic design experience
- Excellent oral and written communication skills and organizational skills
- Knowledge of human-centered design and impact storytelling principles
- Strong interpersonal and facilitation skills
- Strong research and analytical skills
- Knowledge of policy processes
- Ability to respond effectively and efficiently to time-sensitive issues in response to stakeholder interests and needs
- Experience using Adobe Creative Suite
Stipend
$6,131.00 – $6,178.00 Monthly
Point of Contact
Eligibility Requirements
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
- Degree: Currently pursuing a Doctoral Degree.