Era Postbac Fellowship
Postbac Fellowship in Educational Research and Action (Era Postbac Fellowship)
What's a postbac research position?
A postbaccalaurate research position (postbac) is a full-time, paid, non-degree-granting opportunity for people who have completed a bachelor's degree. These positions are offered across many scientific disciplines and involve contributing to ongoing research projects while developing advanced research skills and professional experience. Many individuals in these roles subsequently pursue Ph.D. programs or other graduate or professional study (e.g., MD, Ed.D., Ed.S., JD).
In some social science fields (e.g., economics, sociology, business) postbacs may be referred to as predocs. This usage should not be confused with predoctoral fellows, who are individuals already enrolled in graduate programs and conducting supervised research prior to earning their doctorate (for example, students funded through IES predoctoral training grants or NIH F31 fellowships). In cognitive science, psychology, and education, postbac research positions are often housed within individual research labs rather than coordinated training programs. They may be listed under titles such as "lab manager," "lab coordinator," "research assistant," or "research associate." Although titles vary, these roles all describe the same type of position--a full time mentored research experience designed to support scholars in the period after college through mentored research experience.
For over 15 years, the CLAD Lab has supported postbacs in such roles, with trainees typically serving as lab managers or research associates for two years before advancing to top Ph.D. programs in psychology, human development, cognitive science, or the learning sciences. The Era Postbac Fellowship builds on this tradition by establishing a structured research fellowship with leaders in educational research and action across disciplines at Notre Dame, with a recurring application process each year. Fellows receive mentorship from primary and secondary mentors affiliated with the Institute for Educational Initiatives, receive advanced research and professional training, participate in a practice apprenticeship, and have opportunities to disseminate their work through conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications.
Where can I find more information about the program?
Click to see a full description of the program and a list of all the research centers and labs engaged in educational research and action at Notre Dame.
How can I apply?
Applications for our 2026-28 cohort are now open. Submit your application by February 14, 2026 for full consideration.
What will I need to apply?
- Cover letter: Describe your research interests, goals, and why you are interested in the Era Postbac Fellowship
- CV/Resume: Highlight your academic and research experience
- Unofficial transcript: Courses taken and grades
Have questions?
Email us at clad@nd.edu
Funding
This program is supported by the Institute for Educational Initiatives through its Center for Educational Research and Action (Era).