The NIAID Technology Transfer Fellowship Program (TTFP), offered through the Technology Transfer and Intellectual Property Office (TTIPO), provides an immersive training opportunity for individuals interested in the field of technology transfer and the advancement of public health innovations.
This program is designed for early-career professionals who want to build on their scientific, legal, or business background and gain a practical understanding of how discoveries move from the laboratory toward public use.
The fellowship provides exposure to how federal programs support the responsible development and dissemination of scientific discoveries for public benefit.
About the Program
TTIPO manages technology transfer activities for NIAID and provides patenting and licensing support for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This includes protecting government inventions, managing patent portfolios, negotiating licenses, and facilitating research collaborations.
Through the fellowship, participants gain exposure to how federal technology transfer operates in practice. Under the guidance of experienced professionals, fellows learn how discoveries are evaluated, protected, and advanced toward broader use.
Areas of exposure may include:
- Intellectual property and patent strategy
- Licensing and commercialization approaches
- Research and development agreements (e.g., CRADAs, MTAs, CDAs, clinical trial agreements)
- Portfolio analysis and management
- Collaboration across government, academic, and industry partners
Program Structure
Appointments are typically one year and may be renewed for up to three years, based on program needs and funding availability. Remote participation is currently available, although this may be subject to change.
The fellowship is administered by Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) through the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE).
Who Should Consider Applying
This program may be a good fit for individuals who are interested in how scientific discoveries are translated into real-world applications that benefit public health.
Applicants often have a background in science and are curious about how innovation moves beyond the laboratory. This includes individuals who want to better understand intellectual property, licensing, and the partnerships that help advance early-stage discoveries toward practical use.
The fellowship may also be of interest to those with legal or business training who have a foundation in science and are looking to apply that background in a public health and government setting.
Ideal candidates are typically early in their careers, bring strong communication skills, and have an interest in working at the intersection of science, innovation, and public impact.
Eligibility
- U.S. citizens
- Master’s or Doctoral degree completed within the past five years, or nearing completion prior to the start of the fellowship
- Applicants with a JD or MBA may be considered if they have a scientific background
Stipend and Support
Fellows receive a stipend and additional support, including health insurance and an annual training and travel allowance. Specific stipend levels are set by ORISE and may vary by year of participation.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through the ORISE Zintellect system. The current opportunity announcement, including application requirements and deadlines, can be found at:
https://www.zintellect.com/Opportunity/Details/NIH-NIAID-TTIPO-TTFP-2026-0001
Applicants should refer to the official opportunity announcement for complete and current application requirements.