Advantages of a DCEG Fellowship
The development, learning, and success of our fellows are critical to the Division’s vision and mission, and a central focus of the DCEG 2020 - 2025 Strategic Plan.
The Fellowship Program is supported by a professional staff in the Office of Education, led by Training Director Jackie Lavigne, Ph.D, M.P.H.
What makes the DCEG fellowship experience extraordinary?
Distinctive Research Environment
In annual surveys, our Fellows cite the following advantages of research training in DCEG:
- Unmatched opportunities to grow as a researcher
- Ability to pursue individual research questions
- Freedom to focus on research (without competing for grants)
- Collaborative work across disciplines
- Access to large data sets
- Unique opportunities for studies of rare exposures/cancers
Mentorship Across the Career Span
Our fellows point to professional guidance as a key benefit of their training. Mentors and the Office of Education support fellows in realizing their career goals. Fellows go on to work in:
- Academia (teaching and/or research)
- Federal agencies (e.g., FDA, NIH)
- Non-profit organizations
- Private sector companies
Learn more about career paths of our alumni.
Our investigators have been recognized, time and again, with awards for their mentoring skills. Read about mentoring relationships from current and former trainees.
Focus on Core Competencies
The Division has adopted the core competencies approach to training. Mentors and staff in the Office of Education are continually enhancing workshops and trainings to facilitate the development of competencies in:
- Career exploration
- Communication
- Grant writing
- Speaking about Science
- Scientific writing
- Leadership and Management
- Mentoring and Teaching
- Wellness
Compensation and Benefits
Working in public service at the NIH, the "National Institutes of Hope," brings value beyond measure, but our trainees are also well compensated and supported through a number of programs, open to all trainees.
- Competitive compensation
- Health, vision, and dental insurance
- Paid vacation, sick time, and family leave
- Subsidies for public transportation
Learn more about policies and stipends for NCI fellows
Commitment to a Diverse and Inclusive Workforce
The Division has a long-standing commitment to the recruitment, retention, and development of a diverse group of investigators and trainees.
Learn more about Diversity and Inclusion in DCEG.