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Postdoctoral Training Program | UC Davis MIND Institute

Education and Training

Autism Research Postdoctoral Training Program

Interdisciplinary Training for Autism Researchers

ARTP Application InformationFaculty Mentors
trainee working with a participant

Now recruiting!
Applications are due Sept. 1, 2027 for start dates in Fall or early 2027.

Program Overview

The UC Davis MIND Institute offers a two-year postdoctoral program that prepares Ph.D. and M.D. graduates for careers in autism research, funded by a National Institute of Mental Health T32 training program grant. Using an interdisciplinary approach that combines behavioral and biological sciences, trainees build core skills in areas such as genetics, brain science, and clinical diagnosis within a collaborative research environment.

Trainees work to:

  • Build expertise in their own discipline
  • Gain skills in other areas important for autism research
  • Develop experience in research ethics, study design and analysis, cultural competence, and career development

Trainees gain these skills through:

  • One-on-one mentorship with a primary and secondary mentor
  • Hands-on research in ongoing interdisciplinary projects
  • Didactic coursework
  • Conferences, lecture series, and other training opportunities

Each trainee works with their mentors to create an individualized training plan and carries out autism-focused research. The program follows Kirschstein-NRSA guidelines.

Mentorship

Applicants must have one ARTP faculty member who has agreed to serve as their primary mentor for the two-year program. See the list of potential mentors for more information.

Application Information

The Autism Research Training Program (ARTP) is currently recruiting six NIH-funded postdoctoral positions (restricted to U.S. citizens and permanent residents). Positions are expected to be two years in duration, contingent upon successful review after the first year. Stipend levels will follow NIH guidelines. 

Applications are due Sept. 1, 2027. Initial reviews will take place in mid-Sept. for start dates in Fall or early 2027. Application process

Who Should Apply

Applicants should be planning a career in autism research and have either:

  1. A doctoral degree in biomedical or behavioral science, or
  2. An M.D.

Individuals from historically underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

This is a two-year postdoctoral fellowship, with stipend levels set according to NIH guidelines. All doctoral work must be completed before starting the program.