CDC Public Health Informatics Fellowship Program 2027: Application Guide, Eligibility Requirements, Benefits, and Deadline

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Public Health Informatics Fellowship Program (PHIFP) 2027 offers an exciting opportunity for qualified professionals to develop their expertise in public health informatics, information science, technology, and applied public health research. This two-year, paid fellowship allows selected fellows to apply technological and analytical skills to real-world public health challenges while gaining professional experience through assignments with CDC host sites.

The fellowship is designed for individuals who meet the program’s educational and professional experience requirements and are interested in using information systems, data, and technology to strengthen public health practice. For professionals seeking to combine technical knowledge with public health applications, PHIFP provides a structured pathway to gain practical experience, contribute to public health initiatives, and build specialized expertise in an important and evolving field.

The application period for the Class of 2027 opens on September 1, 2026, and closes on November 6, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET). Applicants must submit their applications and all required supporting materials by the deadline. Recommendation forms must be submitted separately by the applicants’ recommenders no later than November 15, 2026.

1. Overview of the CDC Public Health Informatics Fellowship Program

The Public Health Informatics Fellowship Program is a two-year, paid fellowship administered by the CDC. Its central purpose is to apply information science and technology to the practice of public health.

Public health informatics combines public health knowledge with information systems, data management, analytical methods, and technology. These disciplines help public health professionals collect, manage, interpret, exchange, and use information to support public health decisions and activities.

In modern public health systems, reliable information is essential for monitoring diseases, identifying emerging health threats, improving surveillance systems, coordinating responses, and evaluating interventions. Informatics professionals help make these activities more effective by developing and improving the systems and processes through which public health information is handled.

Through PHIFP, fellows have the opportunity to apply their knowledge and experience in a professional public health environment. The program is particularly relevant to individuals interested in the intersection of information technology, data, research, and public health practice.

The fellowship runs for two years on a full-time basis. Successful applicants must be prepared to commit to the entire fellowship period and relocate to the location of their assigned placement when necessary.

2. What Makes the PHIFP Fellowship Important?

Public health organizations increasingly depend on technology and reliable data to address complex health challenges. From disease surveillance to information sharing between health institutions, informatics plays a significant role in strengthening public health systems.

The CDC PHIFP fellowship provides an opportunity for qualified professionals to develop practical expertise in this field while contributing to public health work.

Applying information science to public health

The fellowship focuses on applying information science and technology to public health practice. This creates an opportunity for fellows to connect their technical capabilities with the information needs of public health organizations.

Professionals with relevant backgrounds may be able to apply their knowledge of information systems, computing, research, or data-related disciplines to public health challenges, subject to the program’s eligibility requirements and assignment needs.

Developing practical professional experience

The two-year structure provides an extended period for fellows to gain experience in a professional environment rather than participating in a short-term training activity.

Working through a CDC assignment can help selected candidates develop a deeper understanding of how information systems and technology are applied in public health settings.

Building specialized expertise

Public health informatics is an interdisciplinary field that brings together technology, information management, research, and public health knowledge. The fellowship offers a pathway for eligible professionals to strengthen their capabilities in this specialized area.

The experience may also help fellows clarify their long-term professional interests and develop a stronger foundation for future work involving public health information systems and technology.

Contributing to public health practice

The program’s focus on practical applications creates opportunities for fellows to connect their professional skills with public health objectives. Depending on the assignment, this may involve work that supports the effective use of information and technology in public health activities.

Specific projects, responsibilities, and learning opportunities will depend on the assignment and the host site’s needs.

3. Fellowship Duration and Financial Support

One of the important features of the Public Health Informatics Fellowship Program is that it is a paid, full-time fellowship lasting two years.

This distinguishes the program from opportunities that offer only short-term training or unpaid professional experience.

Duration

Selected candidates are expected to undertake a two-year fellowship. Applicants should consider the time commitment carefully before submitting an application.

The program requires a sustained commitment, so candidates should be prepared to participate in the fellowship throughout the designated period.

Financial support

The CDC identifies PHIFP as a paid fellowship. This means selected fellows receive financial compensation for their participation in the program.

However, the supplied application announcement does not specify the exact stipend or salary amount, payment schedule, insurance arrangements, relocation assistance, or other benefits. Prospective applicants should consult the official program website or contact the PHIFP team to confirm the current compensation structure and any additional support available to fellows.

Applicants should not assume that every expense associated with relocation or participation will be covered unless the program explicitly confirms it.

4. CDC PHIFP Fellowship 2027 Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the program’s educational, informatics, public health, and research experience requirements. They must also be willing to complete a two-year, full-time fellowship and relocate to the location of their assignment.

The application announcement directs prospective fellows to the official eligibility page for the detailed academic and professional requirements.

Educational qualifications

Applicants must satisfy the educational requirements established by the program. The precise degree requirements, acceptable fields of study, and any other academic conditions should be reviewed on the official PHIFP eligibility page before applying.

Because the program focuses on public health informatics, candidates should carefully assess whether their academic background meets the specific criteria set by the CDC.

Applicants should not assume that holding a degree in computer science, information technology, public health, or another related discipline automatically guarantees eligibility. The program’s formal requirements determine which qualifications are accepted.

Informatics experience

The CDC requires applicants to meet its informatics experience criteria. Informatics involves the effective use of information, data, and technology to support practical objectives.

Relevant professional or academic experience may be important when demonstrating that an applicant can work with information systems and apply technical knowledge in an appropriate context. Nevertheless, candidates must verify the exact experience requirements on the official eligibility page rather than relying on general descriptions of the field.

Public health experience

Applicants must also satisfy the program’s public health experience requirements.

This requirement reflects the fellowship’s purpose: applying information science and technology to public health practice. Candidates should review the official criteria to determine what types of public health experience are accepted and how that experience must be documented.

Research experience

The program additionally specifies research experience requirements. Applicants should check the official eligibility guidance for the required level and type of experience.

Any application materials describing research or professional experience should accurately reflect the applicant’s actual background and demonstrate how it meets the program’s stated criteria.

Full-time commitment

Applicants must be willing to commit to the fellowship for two years on a full-time basis.

This is an important consideration for individuals who are currently employed, enrolled in an academic program, or committed to other professional responsibilities. Prospective fellows should evaluate whether they can meet the program’s time requirements before beginning the application process.

Willingness to relocate

Candidates must be willing to relocate to the location of their assigned fellowship placement.

Applicants should therefore be prepared for the possibility that their assignment may require them to move. They should also consider the practical implications of relocation, including living arrangements, travel, and any associated costs that may not be covered by the fellowship.

5. Who Should Consider Applying?

The PHIFP fellowship may be relevant to professionals who want to use technology, information systems, and research skills to support public health work.

Potential applicants may include individuals with backgrounds in fields such as computing, informatics, information systems, public health, or other disciplines that meet the CDC’s formal educational and experience requirements.

However, interest in technology or public health alone is not sufficient to establish eligibility. Each candidate must satisfy the program’s official academic, informatics, public health, and research criteria.

Individuals considering the opportunity should begin by reviewing the eligibility requirements, comparing them with their own qualifications, and identifying the supporting documentation they will need.

6. Application Timeline for the CDC PHIFP Class of 2027

The CDC has published a schedule covering the application period, applicant webinars, application review, interviews, final selections, onboarding, and the start of the fellowship.

Understanding these dates can help prospective applicants prepare their materials and avoid missing important deadlines.

September 1, 2026: Applications open

The application period opens on September 1, 2026. Eligible candidates can begin preparing and submitting their applications through the official CDC application portal.

Applicants should review the requirements and gather the necessary supporting materials as early as possible.

October 15, 2026: Applicant webinar

The CDC has scheduled an applicant webinar for October 15, 2026. Registration details are to be published by the program.

Prospective applicants should check the official PHIFP website for updates about registration and participation.

October 20, 2026: Applicant webinar

A second applicant webinar is scheduled for October 20, 2026. Registration information is also listed as forthcoming.

These webinars may be useful opportunities to obtain information about the application process. Interested candidates should monitor the official program page for announcements and instructions.

November 6, 2026: Application deadline

The application deadline is November 6, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.

All applications and required supporting materials must be received by this deadline. According to the CDC announcement, late applications will not be accepted.

Applicants should avoid waiting until the final hours to submit their materials. Completing the application in advance allows time to review the information, address potential technical problems, and confirm that all required documents have been submitted.

November 15, 2026: Recommendation forms due

Recommendation forms must be received from applicants’ recommenders by November 15, 2026.

This date comes after the main application deadline, but applicants should arrange their recommendations early and confirm that their recommenders understand the submission process and deadline.

The later recommendation deadline should not be interpreted as permission to submit the main application late.

November 2026 to January 2027: Application screening

During this period, the PHIFP team is scheduled to screen applications for eligibility and quality.

The screening process determines whether candidates satisfy the program’s requirements and whether their applications meet the standards needed to progress through the selection process.

Applicants should ensure that the information in their submissions is complete, accurate, and consistent with the official requirements.

January to February 2027: Interviews

CDC host sites are scheduled to contact and interview applicants during this period.

Candidates who progress to this stage should monitor their email and other relevant contact channels for communications from the program or host sites.

Applicants should be prepared to discuss their education, experience, professional interests, and suitability for the fellowship.

February to March 2027: Final selections

CDC host sites are scheduled to make final selections between February and March 2027. Applicants will be notified of their status.

Selection outcomes depend on the program’s review and placement process. Submitting an application does not guarantee an interview or an offer.

March to July 2027: Onboarding

The CDC plans to onboard selected candidates between March and July 2027.

Selected applicants should follow the instructions provided by the program regarding any required documentation, administrative procedures, and preparations for their assignments.

August 2027: Fellowship assignments begin

Selected candidates are scheduled to begin their CDC assignments in August 2027.

This marks the beginning of the practical fellowship experience.

September 2027: Orientation

New fellows are scheduled to complete a two-week orientation with PHIFP staff in September 2027.

The orientation is part of the program’s introductory process and is intended to help new fellows begin their participation in the fellowship.

7. How to Apply for the CDC Public Health Informatics Fellowship 2027

Interested candidates should apply through the official CDC application portal and review the detailed eligibility requirements before submitting their materials.

Step 1: Review the official eligibility criteria

Begin by visiting the CDC’s official eligibility page:

https://www.cdc.gov/phifp/php/participants/eligibility.html

Review the educational, informatics, public health, and research experience requirements carefully. Determine whether your qualifications and experience satisfy the stated criteria.

Step 2: Prepare your application materials

Gather the information and documents required by the application portal. Check the official instructions to determine which materials must be included and how they should be submitted.

Make sure all information is accurate and that your application clearly reflects your qualifications.

Step 3: Complete the online application

Access the official application portal through the link below:

https://cdc-efms.powerappsportals.us/programs/details/start/?appFormId=91687953-7575-f111-ab0c-001dd830890f

Follow the portal’s instructions and complete all required sections. Review your responses before submitting the application.

Step 4: Arrange your recommendations

Ensure that your recommenders have sufficient time to complete and submit the required recommendation forms.

All recommendation forms must be received by November 15, 2026. Contact your recommenders in advance and confirm that they understand the submission requirements.

Step 5: Submit before the deadline

The main application deadline is November 6, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.

Submit the application and required supporting materials before the deadline. Late applications will not be accepted, so early submission is strongly advisable.

Step 6: Monitor official communications

After applying, monitor your email and check the official PHIFP website for updates about applicant webinars, interviews, and selection announcements.

If selected to progress through the process, respond to communications from CDC host sites and follow any additional instructions.

8. Important Application Tips for Prospective Fellows

A carefully prepared application can help ensure that your qualifications are presented clearly and that you comply with the program’s instructions.

Consider the following practical steps:

• Verify eligibility first: Read the complete eligibility criteria before investing time in an application.
• Prepare early: Collect required documents and supporting information well before the deadline.
• Review your experience: Ensure that your academic and professional background meets the specific requirements for informatics, public health, and research.
• Coordinate recommendations: Contact your recommenders in advance and remind them of the November 15, 2026, deadline.
• Check all dates: Keep track of the application deadline, webinar dates, and expected interview and selection periods.
• Consider relocation: Be prepared to relocate to the assigned host site’s location if selected.
• Plan for the full commitment: Confirm that you can participate full-time for two years.
• Use official sources: Rely on CDC program guidance for the definitive eligibility requirements, application instructions, and any additional information about compensation or placement.

9. Frequently Asked Questions About the CDC PHIFP Fellowship 2027

Is the CDC Public Health Informatics Fellowship paid?

Yes. The CDC identifies PHIFP as a paid fellowship lasting two years. The supplied announcement does not specify the exact compensation amount or the full package of additional benefits.

How long does the fellowship last?

The fellowship lasts two years and requires full-time participation.

When does the PHIFP 2027 application open?

The application period opens on September 1, 2026.

What is the application deadline?

The deadline is November 6, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. All applications and required supporting materials must be received by that time.

When are recommendation forms due?

Recommendation forms must be submitted by recommenders no later than November 15, 2026.

Is relocation required?

Applicants must be willing to relocate to the location of their assigned fellowship placement.

What qualifications are required?

Applicants must meet the CDC’s educational, informatics, public health, and research experience requirements. The detailed criteria are available on the official eligibility page.

Can international applicants apply?

The application announcement provided here does not establish the complete citizenship, nationality, or work-authorization rules for international applicants. Candidates outside the United States should consult the official eligibility requirements and contact the PHIFP team to confirm whether they qualify before applying.

When will selected fellows begin their assignments?

The published timeline indicates that selected candidates are expected to begin their CDC assignments in August 2027, followed by a two-week orientation in September 2027.

Where can applicants ask questions?

Applicants can contact the PHIFP team by email at phifp@cdc.gov for questions about the application process.

10. Official Links and Contact Information

Prospective applicants should use the official CDC resources below to review the requirements and submit their applications.

• Official fellowship information: https://www.cdc.gov/phifp/php/about/index.html
• Application instructions and timeline: https://www.cdc.gov/phifp/php/participants/index.html
• Eligibility requirements: https://www.cdc.gov/phifp/php/participants/eligibility.html
• Online application portal: https://cdc-efms.powerappsportals.us/programs/details/start/?appFormId=91687953-7575-f111-ab0c-001dd830890f
• Email contact: phifp@cdc.gov

Applicants should consult these sources for the latest information, including any updates to eligibility criteria, application instructions, webinars, and placement procedures.

Conclusion

The CDC Public Health Informatics Fellowship Program 2027 is a professional development opportunity for qualified individuals seeking to apply information science and technology to public health practice. Through its two-year, paid, full-time structure, the program provides an opportunity to gain practical experience in a specialized field that connects technology, research, information systems, and public health.

Candidates interested in the fellowship should begin by reviewing the official eligibility criteria and confirming that they meet the required educational and professional experience standards. They should also be prepared to commit to two years of full-time participation and relocate to their assigned placement.

The application period opens on September 1, 2026, and closes on November 6, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. Recommendation forms are due by November 15, 2026. Because late applications will not be accepted, prospective fellows should prepare their materials early, follow the official instructions carefully, and monitor the CDC website for updates throughout the selection process.

For eligible professionals interested in the practical application of information technology to public health, PHIFP offers a structured opportunity to build expertise and contribute to work in this important area.

 

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