Biomedical Sciences Blog

Introduction

The CDRH Medical Device Fellowship Program (MDFP) provides opportunities for health professionals to participate in the FDA regulatory process for medical devices.

CDRH regulates a wide array of medical devices, from artificial hearts, pacemakers, and drug-coated stents; to deep brain stimulators and spinal implants; dialysis machines and infusion pumps; intraocular lenses and cochlear implants; robotic surgery devices and stair-climbing wheelchairs; to in vitro diagnostic devices, and many others. To keep pace with the rapid development of new technology, and to make decisions based on the best scientific information and knowledge available, CDRH routinely consults with experts in the academic community, other government entities, clinical practice, and the military.

CDRH established the Medical Device Fellowship Program to increase the range and depth of collaborations between CDRH and the outside scientific community. The MDFP offers short and long-term fellowship opportunities for individuals interested in learning about the regulatory process and sharing their knowledge and experience with medical devices from the relatively simple to the highly complex.

Physicians with clinical or surgical expertise, engineers in biomedical, mechanical, electrical and software areas, and individuals from many other scientific disciplines have participated in the fellowship program. Opportunities are available for students in many areas as well.

Career Development

Learn about the FDA approval process for medical devices:

• medical device design
• clinical trial design and data
• safety and efficacy evaluation
• materials, performance, bioeffects and standards
• adverse events

Public Service

• Join CDRH’s mission to protect the public health by ensuring that medical devices are safe and effective.
• Share your expertise on complex device issues.
• Make a difference in the lives of patients and consumers.

Application Deadlines

Professionals

• Applications are accepted year-round and should be submitted at least 3 months prior to the desired starting date.

Students

• Summer Interns 2009 – Applications will be accepted from October 1, 2008 to Feb. 1, 2009. Selected candidates will be notified by May, 2009.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Candidates must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
• Co-op and internship candidates must be enrolled in a university or college at the junior level or higher, and have a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.
• Co-op students must be enrolled in a formal university cooperative program.

How to Apply

To apply to the MDFP, please complete our online application form.

Additionally, you must send an email with the following documents attached:

• resume
• letter of interest, describing your level of interest in the medical device field
• academic transcript (for students)

Please note that this form will only be accepted if it is submitted correctly and completely. It may not be saved to be completed at a later time. Please follow the instructions provided and send the requested documents together in one email.

Please see our Privacy Impact Statement.

Selection Criteria

Candidates must meet the following selection criteria:

• Free from conflict of interest
• Relevant work experience
• Demonstrated skill
• Ability to collaborate and work with others
• Ability to communicate orally and in writing
• Ability to handle deadline pressure

FDA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Where to Send

• Email: mdfp@fda.hhs.gov
• Or mail to this address:
  • Medical Device Fellowship Program
    9200 Corporate Blvd HFZ-1
    Rockville, MD 20850