Foreign scientists (pre/post doc) who wish to participate in the NIH Visiting Program must first secure an invitation for an award or appointment from a senior scientist at the NIH. The award or appointment is offered based on a candidate's qualifications and the research needs of the host laboratory.

Individuals interested in a Visiting Program fellowship or appointment should write to a senior scientist at NIH who works in the same research field, enclosing a resume and brief description of their particular research area and interests. The NIH senior scientist serves as the participant's sponsor and supervisor during the period of award or appointment.

Information about the research conducted by scientists at the NIH may be obtained through the following websites:

• NIH Intramural Database (NIDB) - A compilation of information on all NIH intramural scientists and their research. Although still under development, this will replace the NIH Scientific Directory and Annual Bibliography, which can still be referenced when you access this site.
• CRISP system - A database maintained by NIH, and used to search for scientific concepts, emerging trends and techniques, or identify specific projects and/or investigators.
• Community of Science - must be a member to access information on this website.

Once an award/appointment recipient has been invited to participate in research at NIH, our office will be informed by the employing institute and we will begin to process the immigration documents required by the individual to obtain the appropriate visa to enter the US.

We appreciate your interest and hope this information is useful to you. Good luck in your search for research opportunities at NIH.