The Applied Implementation Science (IS) Fellowship Program 2026-2028 is now open for applications. This two-year fellowship offers early and mid-career researchers a unique opportunity to develop applied implementation science skills while working within healthcare delivery systems. Fellows will receive a $150,000 per year stipend, which can support their salary, research activities, and select program-related expenses. The program is designed to equip participants with the expertise to apply implementation science theory and methods to real-world health system challenges across multiple clinical areas.
Fellowship Overview
Hosted by AcademyHealth with support from Amgen, the fellowship targets highly qualified clinical researchers with introductory knowledge or experience in implementation science (IS), health services research (HSR), or related fields. Each fellow is paired with an IS mentor and gains hands-on experience conducting research projects in their health system, building skills that are directly applicable to improving patient care.
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During the program, fellows will engage in research projects focused on one of four therapeutic areas:
- Bone health (osteoporosis)
- Severe uncontrolled asthma, with or without associated COPD
- Thyroid eye disease
- IgG4-related conditions
All projects must be based in the United States, and fellows are responsible for obtaining IRB approval if required.
Fellowship Structure and Benefits
The fellowship offers a comprehensive training experience that combines mentorship, experiential learning, and professional development:
- Virtual biweekly mentor coaching calls (1:1)
- Monthly virtual Learning Sessions covering IS methods and applications
- Quarterly check-ins with program staff from AcademyHealth and Amgen
- Two webinars over the course of the fellowship
- Access to AcademyHealth courses, including Health Policy Orientation (Year 1) and Communicating for Impact (Year 2)
- Participation in the Annual Conference on the Science of Dissemination and Implementation and the Annual Research Meeting (travel and registration supported by a stipend)
Additional benefits include:
- AcademyHealth Individual Membership
- Networking opportunities and panels at conferences
- Dissemination coaching and communications support
- Opportunities to author blog posts featured on the AcademyHealth Blog
This combination of mentorship, learning, and networking ensures fellows develop both practical and theoretical expertise in applied implementation science.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Hold an advanced degree (M.D., D.O., PharmD, Nursing Ph.D., Ph.D., Sc.D., DrPH, or equivalent) in a relevant health or health services research field
- Be currently employed in a permanent role at a healthcare delivery system (hospitals, clinics, or similar settings) that can protect the fellow’s time during the program
- Be legally authorized to work in the United States for the duration of the fellowship (no visa sponsorship available)
- Have experience or interest in at least one of the four therapeutic areas
Applicants must also submit:
- A completed Fellowship Application Form
- A brief research proposal (maximum 6 pages) outlining an IS-focused study in their healthcare setting
- A statement of interest (maximum 1,000 words) explaining motivation, learning objectives, and career goals
- A high-level budget and justification detailing the proposed use of stipend funds
- NIH Biosketch, one writing sample, and two professional recommendation letters
Application Timeline
- Application Period: December 8, 2025 – February 13, 2026 (5:00 PM ET)
- Interviews: March – April 2026
- Offers Sent: June 2026
- Fellowship Start: July 2026
- Fellowship End: June 2028
Program Goals
The Applied Implementation Science Fellowship Program seeks to build a skilled workforce of IS researchers capable of translating evidence-based interventions into real-world healthcare improvements. Fellows gain expertise in designing, implementing, and evaluating IS projects, with an emphasis on integrating interventions into health systems to improve patient outcomes.
By participating, fellows not only advance their own research careers but also contribute to improving clinical practices in bone health, asthma management, thyroid eye disease, and IgG4-related conditions across U.S. healthcare systems.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply by visiting the AcademyHealth fellowship application portal and submitting all required documentation. Questions about eligibility or the application process can be directed to: ISFellowship@academyhealth.org.
The program represents a unique opportunity for early and mid-career clinical researchers to strengthen applied implementation science skills, receive mentorship, and develop impactful projects with a generous stipend.
For more information, visit the Applied Implementation Science Fellowship.
