The Health Psychology and Neurobehavioral Research Program of the National Cancer Institute, NIH, is happy to announce funding for a 1-to 2-year postdoctoral fellowship beginning summer of 2026. The fellow will be integrally involved in the team’s clinical research program that investigates the cognitive, psychosocial, and physical effects of disease and treatment in children through adults with chronic medical conditions who are enrolled on natural history studies, clinical treatment trials, and psychological intervention protocols at the NIH Clinical Center.
The fellow will participate in a variety of clinical research projects, depending on interest and experience. Our psychology team is integrally involved in conducting comprehensive neuropsychological and patient-reported outcome (PRO) assessments of children and young adults with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and other RASopathies, rare tumors, and sickle cell disease. Many of the patients we see are enrolled on experimental treatment protocols evaluating cutting-edge medical therapies for relapsed leukemia, sickle cell anemia, NF1 and other tumor-predisposition syndromes, and immunodeficiency syndromes. Our team also develops and evaluates novel psychological interventions and PRO measures. Research projects with which the fellow may be involved include: 1) a randomized controlled trial evaluating an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) intervention with parents of children with health conditions, 2) a qualitative study of appearance concerns in people with visible signs of illness, 3) a longitudinal study assessing the long-term neuropsychological effects of immunotherapy (CAR-T-cell therapy) in children and young adults with refractory/relapsed leukemia, and 4) a pilot study evaluating a novel device to objectively assess pain in children through adults with NF1 using pupil dilation. Through these experiences, fellows have opportunities to participate in protocol development, study implementation, data analysis and interpretation, and manuscript preparation. Most fellows publish at least one peer-reviewed manuscript resulting from their fellowship.
As part of our ACT clinic, the fellow will conduct evidence-based therapy on inpatient units and outpatient clinics with children, AYA, and/or adults depending on preference and availability. The Health Psychology group has four licensed psychologists who provide supervision and mentorship across the various clinical and research activities. A second year of fellowship is anticipated but dependent upon funding. Competitive salary and benefits are offered. Applicants must have a PhD or PsyD from an APA-accredited graduate program/internship and have demonstrated research experience. Experience working in a medical setting is strongly preferred.
Email a letter of interest and CV to the Clinical and Training Director, Staci Martin Peron, PhD at [email protected]. Reference letters will be requested upon invitation for an interview. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Disclaimers: This position is subject to a background investigation. The NIH is dedicated
to building a diverse community in its training and employment programs.
(This information was updated on 1/15/2026)