BIOMS: How to Apply

NIH T32 in Biotechnological & Integrative Opportunities in Microbiome Sciences

Applications for the 2026 BIOMS cohort will be accepted from March 1 to April 1

The BIOMS Training Program prepares doctoral students to become leaders in microbiome sciences and microbiome driven biotechnology through an integrated One Health framework. BIOMS Fellows gain interdisciplinary research expertise, biotechnology training, and professional preparation through:

  • Foundational and advanced microbiome coursework
  • A three-week Summer Jumpstart Program
  • A biotechnology internship with industry partners
  • One-on-one mentorship from academic and industry scientists
  • Professional development workshops in communication, reproducibility, regulation, and career readiness

BIOMS Fellows join a vibrant community of trainees across two campuses (University Park and Hershey) and the 125‑faculty One Health Microbiome Center.

Applications are due April 1, 2026.

Only students in their first and second year of a BIOMS-affiliated PhD program are eligible to apply.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

  • Be enrolled in year 1 or 2 of a PhD program affiliated with BIOMS (affiliated programs listed here)
  • Have foundational training or research experience in microbiology, microbiome sciences, biotechnology, or computational biology
  • Demonstrate interest in both microbiome sciences and biotechnological applications
  • Commit to participating fully in BIOMS coursework, the summer Jumpstart program, internship, mentoring activities, and professional development offerings

U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible for NIH funded slots. Additional Penn State funded slots may be available for noncitizens.

Application Requirements

Applicants must upload a single PDF containing items 1-4 and arrange for two letters of support to be submitted separately.

Include in your PDF:

  1. Personal Statement (1 page)
    Describe your professional goals, motivations for pursuing microbiome sciences, and why you are interested in the BIOMS Training Program.
  1. Research Statement (1 page)
    Explain your current or proposed research and explicitly address:
    • Your interests in microbiome sciences, and
    • How your work engages biotechnological concepts, tools, or applications.
  1. Full Curriculum Vitae
  1. One first authored creative work that best represents your strengths as a developing scientist. Examples include:
    • A published or submitted manuscript
    • A research presentation slide deck
    • A class-based writing assignment or presentation
    • A digital or data driven project
    • A product or analysis from prior employment

Letters of Support (2 total)

Applicants must request:

  • One letter from their current faculty advisor (required)
  • One additional letter from a mentor, course instructor, research supervisor, or employer who can speak to the applicant’s scientific and professional potential

Letters should address:

  • The applicant’s readiness for rigorous microbiome and biotechnology training
  • Evidence of research potential, independence, and perseverance
  • Capacity for collaboration and community engagement
  • Fit with BIOMS program goals

Letters of support should be submitted electronically to Jean Pierce (jep32@psu.edu). Please include the trainee’s name in the file name.

Selection Criteria

Applications are reviewed holistically by the BIOMS Program Directors and Internal Advisory Committee. Competitive applicants typically demonstrate:

  • Clear interest in microbiome biotechnology through coursework, research, or prior experience
  • Strong scientific communication skills
  • Motivation to participate fully in cohort-based activities, mentoring, and community programming
  • Commitment to responsible conduct and professional development
  • Potential to thrive within a highly interdisciplinary research environment

Top candidates will be invited for a short virtual or in-person interview with the BIOMS Program Directors.

How to Apply

Submit your complete single PDF application and request letters using the BIOMS online submission portal.

Applications must be received by April 1, 2025.

For questions about eligibility, application materials, or program expectations, contact Grace Deitzler.

Name
Are you a citizen, noncitizen national, or lawfully admitted permanent resident of the United States? *

It is important to submit your application to only one T32 program. By submitting your application to this program, you have determined that this program is the best fit for your research interests and training goals. If you feel that your research may also fit with a secondary Huck T32 program, please list it below. [Note: if your application is considered by another T32 program, you may be asked to submit additional materials at that time.]

Select all fellowships or scholarships you have received from Penn State or an external funding source *
I understand that if I am selected as a funded trainee for this T32 program, I must relinquish any teaching responsibilities during my time as a trainee *


You will receive a confirmation email upon submission of this form.

If you do not receive that message, please contact Jean Pierce (jep32@psu.edu)