What Is NIH Virtual Postbac Poster Day?
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Virtual Postbac Poster Day is an annual event that showcases the scientific work of postbaccalaureate scholars who are completing a yearlong research apprenticeship at NIH. The program, which began in 2012, aims to provide a supportive environment where emerging scientists can present their findings, receive constructive feedback, and network with investigators, peers, and mentors from across the NIH campus and beyond.
Because of the pandemic, the event transitioned to a fully virtual platform in 2020. The virtual format has expanded participation, allowing scholars from all 50 states and several international institutions to join without the logistical challenges of travel.
How the Virtual Event Works
All posters are uploaded to a secure online gallery prior to the live session. During the event, each scholar receives a 5minute slot to present their work via a shared screen, followed by a brief Q&A. Attendees use a chat function to submit questions, and moderators circulate between virtual rooms so that scholars receive feedback from multiple reviewers.
Key Features:
- Live streaming of presentations on the NIH Virtual Events platform.
- Interactive chat and polling for realtime audience engagement.
- Digital poster PDFs available for download after the event.
- Recorded sessions for later viewing.
Event Schedule (2024)
All times are Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
- 09:00 09:30 Opening remarks from the NIH Office of Postbac Programs
- 09:30 10:30 Keynote speaker: Dr. Maya Patel, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
- 10:30 12:30 Poster presentations (Group A)
- 12:30 13:30 Lunch break (virtual networking lounges open)
- 13:30 15:30 Poster presentations (Group B)
- 15:30 16:00 Panel discussion: Career Paths After a Postbac Experience
- 16:00 16:30 Closing ceremony and awards
Poster Highlights
Below are a few standout projects from the 2024 cohort. Click the thumbnails to view fullsize PDFs.
How to Participate
For Postbacs
- Apply to the NIH Postbac Program through the official portal.
- Complete your research project & prepare a 3page poster abstract.
- Submit the final poster PDF by the deadline (usually early May).
- Attend a preparation workshop on virtual presentation skills.
For Mentors and Reviewers
- Register as a reviewer on the event website.
- Review assigned posters (PDFs are available two weeks before the event).
- Provide written feedback and score each poster using the NIH rubric.
For General Attendees
Anyone with an interest in biomedical research can join the live stream. Registration is free and requires only an email address.
