Please Note: Applications are reviewed annually between March and April for the upcoming training period. The upcoming training period runs from July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027. The 2026-2027 application deadline is April 30, 2026.
Meet our 2026-2027 Fellowship Training Program in Vaccinology Fellows
Viktoria Van Nederveen
I joined CVD as a postdoctoral fellow in September 2024. My research focuses on the development, characterization and advancement of Shigella-enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) vaccine candidates. I am interested in vaccine design and development. My primary mentor is Dr. Eileen M. Barry. I received my Ph.D. in Emerging Infectious Diseases from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences.
Emily Stucke
My research focuses on the genomics, evolution, and transmission of dengue virus (DENV). Using genomic sequencing, phylogenetics, and population genetic approaches, I investigate how viral genetic diversity shapes transmission dynamics and clinical outcomes. I am also interested in the biological and genetic factors that contribute to severe malaria, with the goal of improving our understanding of host-pathogen interactions and the mechanisms underlying disease severity.
Zakieh Zare
My research interests focus on understanding the mechanisms that support durable antibody responses following vaccination. I am involved in a clinical study evaluating longitudinal immune responses to GARDASIL 9 and an experimental HIV vaccine candidate, focusing on antibody-secreting cells and vaccine-induced antibody durability. I am particularly interested in translational vaccine research that connects clinical studies with laboratory-based immune analysis to better understand and improve long-term vaccine protection.
CVD's Fellowship Training Program in Vaccinology
Vaccines are one of the most cost-effective approaches in preventive medicine. The National Research Service Award training grant is a unique opportunity designed to prepare MDs, PhDs, or those with equivalent degrees, for careers in vaccinology. Each fellow selects the laboratory research track, clinical track, or combined laboratory and clinical track. The program offers all trainees broad exposure to both laboratory and clinical trial phases of vaccinology.
- Laboratory track: Trains basic scientists and physician-scientists in laboratory research for vaccine development including molecular biology, immunology, animal and cell culture modeling, and biostatistics.
- Clinical track: Trains clinicians and epidemiologists in clinical trial study design for large scale field trials, protocol preparation, procurement of administrative, ethical and regulatory clearances, conducting trials, and data analysis.
Program Administration
- Marcelo B. Sztein, MD, Associate Director for Basic and Translational Research, CVD, T32 Principal Investigator and Director of the T32 Pathogenesis, Immunology and Antigen Discovery Track
- Kirsten E. Lyke, MD, Director, Vector-borne Diseases and Challenge Unit, CVD and Director of the T32 Clinical, Epidemiological and Policy Track
Internal Advisory Committee
- Marcelo B. Sztein, MD
- Eileen Barry, PhD
- Matthew Laurens, MD, MPH
- David J. Riedel, MD, MPH
- Kirsten Lyke, MD
Individuals interested in fellowship opportunities are required to contact individual faculty and discuss research opportunities before submitting their application.
Fellow Application Process
Eligibility /Qualifications:
- MD, PhD, MD-PhD, or equivalent degree.
- Appointments to this training grant are restricted to US citizens, non-citizen national (born in a U.S. territory like American Samoa or Swains Island) or permanent residents of the United States per NIH guidelines. The applicants VISA status should be clearly stated in their CVs
- Two year training commitment.
- Trainees are required to pursue their research training full time, defined as 40 hours per week to the program and its related research activities.
Vaccinology Training Program Fellows will receive:
- Annual stipend at the NIH-specified level, based on full years of relevant postdoctoral experience at the time of appointment.
- Tuition limited to that required for specific courses in support of the approved training program.
- Travel funds for a training experience, such as attendance and presentation of research at a national conference.
How to Apply:
Fill out the Application form:
If you do not meet the eligibility requirements for the fellowship training program but would like to be considered for other post-doctoral positions, please contact members of our faculty working in your area of interest to inquire about available opportunities.
View faculty webpages.
For More Information:
Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health
University of Maryland School of Medicine
685 W. Baltimore Street, Room 480
Baltimore, MD 21201
+1 (410) 706-5328
CVD_training@som.umaryland.edu