Who We're Looking For
We're looking for emerging scholars who are passionate about advancing nursing science and ready to invest in intensive, mentored research. The application process is designed to help us understand your research vision, assess fit with our faculty mentors and ensure mutual success. Applicants must be registered nurses (RN) with a research doctorate (PhD) in nursing or related field awarded within the last two years and prior to the start of the postdoctoral appointment.
Our program welcomes postdoctoral fellows whose research interests align with VUSN's signature areas:
- Acute and Chronic Illness
- Data Science and Health Technologies
- Health Barriers
- Nursing Education
- Palliative Care Science
- Pregnancy Outcomes, Mother & Infant Health and Family Health
The foundation of our program is the mentor-fellow relationship. We prioritize finding strong matches between your research goals and our faculty expertise. Applicants interested in working with a particular faculty member are encouraged to contact prospective mentors directly to discuss their research interests and potential fit with the program.
Just exploring? If you'd like to learn more before applying formally, submit an INQUIRY and we'll be happy to answer your questions.
Admission Requirements
- Applicants must be registered nurses (RN) with a research doctorate (PhD) in nursing awarded within the last two years and prior to the start of the postdoctoral appointment.
- Proficient English skills for academic writing.
- Be eligible for either an H-1B or J-1 visa. Applicants should note that sponsorship is contingent upon current federal requirements and associated costs to the institution.
Required Application Materials
- Official Transcripts from most recent/current institution of higher education attended
- Curriculum Vitae (with links to your publications)
- Three Letters of Recommendation At least one letter should come from a member of your dissertation committee. Letters should be emailed directly to VUSNpostdoc@vanderbilt.edu
- Cover Letter that describes previous research experience, goals for postdoctoral training and career, focus/area of research and a VUSN faculty member who could potentially serve as mentor, expectations/needs during mentorship, and an idea for potential research project to carry out during the postdoctoral training.
Applicants should note that postdoctoral opportunities supported by sponsored projects or associated with specific faculty members may have additional or different requirements. Please review the opportunities page carefully prior to applying for complete details about available positions and application requirements.
Ready to Join Us?
Apply by April 15, 2026.
We look forward to learning about your research interests and how they might thrive at VUSN.