Post-Baccalaureate Scholar Program
The Post‑Baccalaureate (“Post‑Bac”) Scholar Program at the Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital provides a structured, cohort‑based research training experience for recent college graduates preparing for medical school, graduate school or research‑focused careers.
The program offers immersive hands‑on research training combined with formal professional development, emphasizing scientific skill‑building, career readiness and mentorship. Scholars are hired as full‑time, benefits‑eligible employees of Nationwide Children’s Hospital and are financially supported by hosting principal investigators (PIs).
Interested applicants can apply through Workday.
Research Training
Post-bac scholars complete their training in either bench (basic or translational science) or clinical research settings, based on the focus of their host laboratory or research team.
- Bench Research Track
Scholars gain experience in experimental design, laboratory techniques, data generation, analysis, and scientific rigor relevant to biomedical discovery and translational research. - Clinical Research Track
Scholars develop skills in human subjects research, study coordination, data collection and management, regulatory processes, and collaboration with clinical care teams.
Program Structure
- Program Length: One year with the possibility of one‑year extension (up to two total years)
- Cohort Entry: July
- Employment Status: Fulltime, benefits eligible
- Assessment: Entrance and exit interviews, mentor feedback, program staff reviews, and graduate/medical school mock interviews
- Completion: Certificate awarded upon successful completion of all program requirements
Applicants should discuss preferred cohort entry and track length with interested PIs during the interview process and upon hiring.
Advisory Committee Members
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in a scientific, health-related or related field completed within three years of program start, or in progress with graduation prior to employment
**Applicants whose bachelor’s degree was earned more than three years prior may be considered on a case-by-case basis
Skills and Qualifications
Successful candidates demonstrate strong organizational and communication skills, attention to detail, the ability to learn new research methods and follow established protocols and comfort working both independently and collaboratively. Basic computer and data management proficiency is expected.
Application and Selection
Applications require:
- Academic CV
- Cover letter/Personal Statement
- Unofficial undergraduate transcript
- Contact information for two (2) references
Application window and deadline:
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. To support timely review and PI availability during NIH grant submission cycles, applicants are encouraged to apply during the following time window. Applications submitted outside these windows may be reviewed as PI availability permits.
- July cohort: February 1 – March 31