The Duke-NCCU Interdisciplinary Postdoctoral Training Program (DN-IPT) aims to equip MD, PhD, and MD/PhD recipients with specialized skills in developmental neuroscience research with a focus on child psychiatry and neurodevelopmental conditions. Trainees will employ advanced methodologies, including brain imaging, electrophysiology, computational/machine learning and preclinical modeling, and digital health, to enhance diagnoses and interventions for children and adolescents. 

Eligibility

• Applicants must hold an MD, PhD, or MD/PhD.
  NOTE: Trainees are required to pursue their research training on a full-time basis, devoting full time effort to the training program. Trainees in clinical areas must devote their time to the proposed research training and must confine clinical activities to those that are an integral part of the research training experience that will result in peer-reviewed publications. Such clinical research activities can fulfill requirements toward licensure in some cases with appropriate arrangements.
• Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• A demonstrated interest in research related to child psychiatry or neurodevelopmental conditions is required.
• Candidates should aspire to pursue a research-focused career.
• Research interests may range from preclinical models to clinical interventions and method development. 

Funding and Duration

• Positions are funded for 2-3 years of postdoctoral research training.
• Compensation is aligned with the NIH pay scale. 

Program Highlights

• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and resources at both Duke University and NCCU.
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and mentorship from leading experts in the field.
• Engagement in innovative research methodologies to address child psychiatric and neurodevelopmental conditions.
• Commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive research environment. 

Application Information and Materials

Applications are currently being accepted and will be considered on a rolling basis, with application reviews beginning January 5, 2026. Applicants interested in applying after that date should reach out to the T32 co-directors, Jonathan Posner, MD (jonathan.posner@duke.edu) or Kimberly Carpenter, PhD (kimberly.carpenter@duke.edu), to determine if there are positions still available in the program prior to submitting an application.

Submission

Please send the following application materials to Michelle McCray (michelle.mccray@duke.edu):

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• One-page letter of intent detailing:
  • Background
  • Research interests and proposed mentor(s) at Duke and/or NCCU
  • Career goals
• Up to 2 letters of recommendation
• Letter of support from proposed mentor stating their commitment to your training if accepted into the program