Meet up to 8 hiring faculty via a series of 10 min interviews on zoom. Faculty will rate their interest in meeting each trainee, so be sure to include a fully updated CV, clear description of your research experience, and research interests. We attract faculty looking for a wide range of research experience, so all levels of research experience (even no research experience) are encouraged to apply.
InfoSession
Register for our InfoSession on Nov 14th 12pm - 1pm ET (9 - 10am PT) to learn more about the application process, event logistics, and information about each participating PROPEL program. Register
Eligibility Criteria
- Interested in pursuing PhD Degree in biomedical research (including MD/PhD or other combined professional degree/PhD)
- Must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Must hold a Bachelors in Science by July 2026
- Can commit to a full time research position for at least 1 year
In accordance with Federal and State law, we do not discriminate on the basis of age, gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, health, or disability.
Don't apply if:
- You’re interested in pursing an MD degree. Our faculty will offer research experiences that won't fit for your career path. Instead consider the following MD Postbac programs, as they will likely better suit your needs:
-
You're NOT interested in working at one of our participating institutions. Participating faculty will only be sourced from the following institutions:
- Oregon Health & Science University
- University of California, San Francisco
- University of Iowa
- University of Wisconsin - Madison
- Virginia Commonwealth University
Application requirements
See a full list of questions here.
To apply to the National PROPEL Matchmaking Event you will need:
- CV
- Contact Information (name, title, and email address) for one to three references. References might include research mentors, supervisors, adviser, community leaders, professors any one that can speak to your character and skills.
Apply
Application Link is now open. Click Here.
Application Deadline: Dec 5th, 2025, 5pm PT
FAQ
What is the application process?
Please fill out an application by Dec 5th, 2025, 5pm PT. It's very important to include all information about your past experiences and include a CV and list of references in your application.
Once we have all applications, we add the names of all faculty who have applied to the event to a secondary survey (Choices Survey), in mid-December. You will need to use that survey to rank the faculty you would most like to meet. Faculty will do the same, by reading through your application answers and reviewing your CV.
Once we have the rankings of both groups, we will create a schedule for each participant that includes as many of their ranked choices as possible. Those schedules will be sent out right before the event.
What is the format of the event?
The entire Matchmaking Event is virtual. We start with a short introduction in a common Zoom room. This introduction will explain the format of the event, and include presentations about the PROPEL programs located at each university. Then we will start mini-interviews.
There will be two rounds of 4 mini-interview sessions (with 5 min breaks between each 10 minute interview), with a short break in between the two sessions. Each mini-interview will take place in the zoom room created by individual faculty. The Matchmaking Team will be on had to help with any technical issues.
After both sessions of mini-interviews are completed, we will have a short wrap-up that includes an outline of next steps.
Do I need previous research experience to apply?
No, you do not need previous research experience to apply. Faculty will be looking for applicants that meet their individual needs. Some faculty are looking for applicants with specific skill sets, but some are interested in scholars with little to no experience.
Am I guaranteed a match at the National Matchmaking Event?
No, we can not guarantee a match.
Am I guaranteed to have 8 mini-interviews with faculty if I apply?
No we can not guarantee mini-interviews with faculty. The number of mini-interviews will be highly dependent on how many faculty and scholars have applied. The best way to ensure you have the maximum number of mini-interviews is to full participate in every part of the application process. This includes a clear description of your research interests and experience and a well crafted CV. Scholars who complete the secondary survey (Choices Survey, sent in January) in which you'll select the faculty you'd most like to meet with after the initial applications have been collected will also be more likely to be match for mini-interviews.
I'm only interest in one school site/I'm interested in any and all school sites. Is the Matchmaking Event right for me?
Yes! In the application, we've included a space where you can select the school sites you are interested. Selecting just one or all of the schools will help us tailor your faculty matches for your mini-interviews. Keep in mind that, due to capacity and depending on the number of participating faculty from each institution, we may make matches outside of your selected school site interest. We encourage you to keep an open mind. We have seen those random, unexpected matches turn into fantastic science partnerships.
What is PROPEL?
PROPEL is a postbac program that provides curriculum, professional development, and community support alongside paid research opportunities provided by hiring faculty. Each PROPEL at each site is a little different to meet the needs of their specific site. Learn more about each program by checking their local page (linked on our home page).