2026 TRACS Paid Research Training Program
By Department of Research | Feb 9, 2026
We are excited to invite applications for the 2026 Transition to Academic Careers (TRACS) Program, a one-year paid research training opportunity designed to strengthen the research capacity of students in biomedicine and public health as they transition to the next stage of their careers.
About TRACS
TRACS provides scholars with rigorous research training under the guidance of experienced mentors. Participants will contribute to ongoing research projects and scientific publications, enhancing their competitiveness for residency, post-doctoral training, or doctoral program applications.
Program Details
📅 Program Dates: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027
💰 Stipend: $25,000 (distributed quarterly)
⌛ Time Commitment: 20 hours per week for one year
🏛️ Sponsored by: NIMHD (Grant #2S21MD012474-06)
Eligibility Requirements
✔ U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident, Visa holders are not eligible
✔ A current student in a pre-doctoral program (e.g., DrPH, MD, PhD, DNP) or in a gap year preparing to apply to a doctoral program
✔ Demonstrated interest in public health, community-based, clinical, and translational research
✔ Good academic standing
How to Apply
📌 Application Deadline: March 1, 2026
Submit one PDF file with the subject line "TRACS" to Lakia.Maxwell@downstate.edu, including:
✅ Cover Letter (max 500 words) outlining career goals, research interests, prior experience, and how TRACS will support future plans
✅ Curriculum Vitae (CV)
✅ Unofficial Transcript with course listings
✅ One Letter of Recommendation
This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on research experience, enhance your academic profile, and prepare for the next steps in your career. If you have any questions, please email Lakia Maxwell at Lakia.Maxwell@downstate.edu with the subject line: "2026 TRACS Program Inquiry."
We look forward to your application!
Tags: Research