Senior Research Associateships, which are awarded for one year or less to those who have held a doctorate for more than five years. Both types of appointments are renewable up to a maximum period of three years. Those selected for participation must be in residence at the sponsoring field center during the entire period of the associateship.
Associates have the status of visiting scientists or engineers during their period of tenure.
Citizenship requirements may apply depending on the area of research. Participants must have full command of the English language. Non-US citizens may apply in basic research areas only, and either an Exchange Visitor or a Permanent Resident visa is required before tenure may begin. Awardees must hold the Ph.D., Sc.D. or other earned research doctoral degree recognized as equivalent to the Ph.D. or must present acceptable evidence of having completed all the formal academic requirements for one of these degrees before tenure can begin. Applicants must demonstrate superior ability for creative research.