At NEI, we’re dedicated to training and supporting the next generation of vision researchers and clinicians. Through the National Institutes of Health (NIH), we offer exciting opportunities to students in high school, college, graduate school, and medical or dental school.
Summer internships
NEI’s 2 summer internship programs are open to students who are enrolled at least half time in:
- High school (age 17 or older)
- College
- Graduate school
- Medical or other professional school (like veterinary or optometry programs)
Internships are in Bethesda or Rockville, Maryland and last 8 to 12 weeks.
NIH Summer Intern Program
Spend the summer working alongside some of the world’s leaders in vision research. Our interns have assisted on important projects studying eye diseases, genetics, retinal cell biology, and more.
Diversity In Vision Research & Ophthalmology (DIVRO)
We believe that increasing diversity in the field of vision research will help us better tackle the challenges of treating eye disease. This program offers hands-on training and mentorship to students from underrepresented groups in vision research.
Student programs
For college students
Undergraduate Scholarship Program
Student scientists from disadvantaged backgrounds can get scholarship support and paid research training from NIH— as well as paid employment and further training after graduation.
For college graduates
Postbaccalaureate Intramural Research Training Award
Recent graduates who plan to apply to graduate or professional school can spend 1 to 2 years doing full-time biomedical research at NIH. Work side by side with some of the world’s leading scientists.
The NIH Academy
Learn about health disparities and how we can address them. The Academy’s goal is to encourage future researchers and physician scientists to focus on improving access to health care so all people can live healthier lives.
For medical students
Medical Research Scholars Program
Get professional training, take part in research, and work closely with NIH mentors and advisers. We aim to make this the premier training program for tomorrow’s leaders in medicine and biomedical research.
Read the requirements for the Medical Research Scholars Program
For graduate students
Graduate Partnerships Program
Take advantage of NIH’s extensive resources while you conduct your dissertation research. Join the Intramural Research Program and collaborate with leading scientists and clinicians.