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Apply to be a Fellow

Steps to Apply to the Laboratory Leadership Service Program

  1. ›Apply to be a Fellow
  2. 1. Check Eligibility
  3. 2. Review Salary and Benefits Information
  4. 3. Informational Webinars for Fellowship Applicants
  5. 4. Prepare Application Information and Materials
  6. 5. Complete Online Application
Related Pages

LLS Recruitment Flier

LLS Recruitment Flyer [411 KB, 1 Page, 508]

The LLS program is a one-of-a-kind fellowship opportunity that bridges lab science and public health and delivers expert training in the competencies required to lead a public health laboratory or program. It provides unparalleled opportunities for career growth and progression.

LLS fellows are selected from among highly qualified, eligible applicants drawn to public health service and interested in practical application of laboratory methods to a wide range of contemporary public health problems. To apply for LLS, you must:

  • Be willing to commit to a 2-year, full-time program that begins in July with a month-long training in Atlanta, Georgia
  • Be willing to relocate to your assignment. Assignments may be at a CDC headquarters laboratory in Atlanta; another CDC laboratory throughout the country; or a state, local, territorial, or tribal public health laboratory.
  • Meet the specified eligibility requirements

The LLS application process is competitive. Successful applications include:

  • A compelling explanation of the candidate’s interest in a public health career
  • Professional experience communicating technical laboratory skill, initiative, and leadership potential
  • Volunteer experience that demonstrates a service-oriented mindset
  • Personal statement responses that explain how LLS will help the candidate reach their goals

For LLS application questions, see our Program Information page or contact us at LLS@cdc.gov.

Class of 2024 Deadlines & Decision Dates
March 15, 2023 Application period opens at 9:00 a.m. (ET).
June 1, 2023 Application period closes at 11:59 p.m. (ET).

All applications and supporting materials must be received by the deadline.

Late applications will not be considered.
August 2023 LLS program reviews applications and selects applicants for interviews. Invitations to interview will be sent via email by the end of July.
August–October 2023 LLS program and potential host laboratories interview applicants virtually and successful candidates are matched with an LLS assignment.*
November 2023 LLS program notifies final pool of candidates of matched or wait-listed status.
July 2024 Two-year fellowship begins.New LLS fellows start one-month orientation and summer course in Atlanta.
August 2024 New LLS fellows will report to their host site assignments immediately following summer course.

*The LLS match process may occur in two steps:

  1. Pre-match: Candidates advancing to host laboratory interviews may have the option to interview with pre-match eligible host laboratories. Candidates who match during the pre-match interviews will not interview with other host labs. Pre-match interviews increase a candidate’s chances for match and acceptance into the program by competing with a smaller pool of applicants. If there are no pre-match eligible host sites, all candidates will advance to the regular match process.
  2. Regular Match: Candidates not matched during the pre-match interviews and candidates that opted out of pre-match interviews will have the opportunity to interview with other host laboratories.
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