Presidential Management Fellows (PMF)

About the PMF Program

For general information on the PMF program and eligibility, visit http://pmf.gov/.

The Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) program is a flagship leadership development program at the entry level for advanced degree candidates. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has participated in the PMF program since 1985. We pride ourselves on offering interesting, challenging, and flexible opportunities for all fellows. NIH also has a strong community of current and former PMFs who stay involved in the program.

PMFs develop Individual Development Plans (IDPs) and select rotations that are tailored to meet their career development goals and the agency's long-term succession planning needs. At-Large PMFs complete rotational assignments in a broad range of administrative and programmatic areas, including budget and finance, grants management, program and management analysis, contracts management, and human resources. All PMFs have a dedicated mentor for the two-year program who guides them. Finally, fellows may participate on a variety of NIH-wide projects, as well as Intern/Fellow led committees for events like Intern/Fellow Orientation and Graduation that add value to the program.

Through collaboration with current PMFs, alumni, and the PMF Subcommittee, NIH PMF Core Values were established in 2022. The Core Values include leadership, diversity, service, personal development, and community. NIH PMFs strive to embody these values throughout their time in the program and beyond, both in personal and professional settings.
NIH PMF Core Values

TO APPLY FOR THE PMF PROGRAM, VISIT http://pmf.gov/. The application and assessment process begins each Fall and is managed centrally by the US Office of Personnel Management. PMF Finalists are eligible to apply for PMF jobs with agencies like NIH.

PMFs at NIH

NIH hires a variety of fellows each year, though not all types are hired every year. If you’re a PMF Finalist, check OPM’s online Talent Management System (TMS) for any available openings at NIH.

Targeted PMFs are hired by an office or manager for a specific position. They spend two years in that position, with the exception of their required 4-6 month Developmental Assignment.

Designated PMFs rotate through a specified Institute or Center (IC) and may have one or more rotations outside of their home IC. As a Designated fellow, the focus is on learning the organization and culture of their home IC.

At-Large PMFs are hired by the NIH Office of Human Resources and rotate throughout the entire NIH, creating their own schedule of 3-4 month rotations. These rotational opportunities provide on-the-job training with exposure to senior leadership.

PMF Class Testimonials

“I decided to choose the NIH for my fellowship because I felt confident that there would be great support and focus on Fellow’s professional development and growth. There was already an established, robust program and I liked the idea of being part of a cohort. The most attractive aspect was the opportunity to complete rotational assignments in various administrative capacities throughout the NIH.”

– Celena Snoddy

“Coming from a scientific research background, NIH was my top choice for placement as a PMF finalist. I love having an inside view of the NIH and learning more about all that it takes to support the advancement of biomedical research. One of the best parts of being a PMF at the NIH is the extensive support network available to all PMFs. The NIH has strong support from program staff and a large cohort of PMFs each year. PMFs are highly regarded at the NIH and have extensive opportunities for mentorship and rotation across all of the institutes. The best part of my targeted PMF experience at the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) has been the opportunity to work directly with senior leadership and executive staff on a wide variety of projects. I would highly suggest any PMF finalist consider coming to the NIH – even if you don’t have a background in science. It takes many different skill sets to advance research at the NIH and there are a wide variety of positions available for PMFs!”

– Alissa Meister

“As a PMF finalist with a biomedical research background, I had originally been looking for a position that was unrelated and very different than what I had experienced in grad school and academia, and I had assumed that I would not find that at the NIH. However, at the PMF Job Fair, I stopped by the booth and set up an interview, and was completely impressed by the passion and enthusiasm everyone had for their jobs and the NIH PMF program. I felt supported and encouraged from the initial interview even prior to receiving an offer, and most importantly also felt like the NIH was a place where I would have unique opportunities to begin to shape and define my own career. That has all continued to be true, and I feel very fortunate to be here. The NIH has the best people who care about the work that they do, and who work so hard every day to advance the NIH mission. I would encourage PMF Finalists to get rid of any preconceived notions and be open to all appointment opportunities; at worst you’ll meet interesting people and hear about the cool work that they do, and at best you’ll find an amazing position!”

- Ellen Mintz

Annual PMF Highlights - 2022

Annual PMF Highlights - 2023

Annual PMF Highlights - 2024

Contact Us

You can find contact information on NIH’s TAS postings. If you have questions about the NIH PMF program view the PMF Q&A page or need more information, please write us at pmfinfo@nih.gov.

Office Hours

Are you a Supervisor or Administrative Staff looking to learn more about NIH PMF hiring or rotation opportunities? Meet with the NIH PMF Agency Coordinator.

Administrative Training Committee

The Administrative Training Committee partners with the NIH Training Center to oversee the NIH Internship and Fellowship Programs.

Contact us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.

Office of Human Resources