Special Volunteers

Currently, there are more than 1,300 Special Volunteers and 500 Guest Researchers at the NIH. Equal to the demand for scientists is the need for Special Volunteers who are able to contribute their expertise and talents in support of NIH’s mission. Approximately 500 Guest Researchers are using NIH’s research facilities to further their research, and by furthering their research, they are indirectly contributing to NIH’s effort to uncover new knowledge that will lead to better health for our nation.

Scientific Directors/IC Directors or a delegated official at the Institute/Center level determines that (1) the volunteer or guest researcher is qualified to do the proposed work; (2) the applicant has sufficient income to support himself/herself during the period of the assignment; (3) the Special Volunteer’s proposed project or activity will provide a needed service to NIH; and (4) the Guest Researcher’s proposed project will not interfere with ongoing Federal projects.

The Radiation Research Program currently has several Special Volunteers. They provide expertise and historical perspective from past experiences as NCI Program Directors, Branch Chiefs, and/or have specialized expertise in international health, health disparities issues and global health networking.

Martin Brechbiel, Ph.D.
David Pistenmaa, M.D., Ph.D.
Rosemary Wong, Ph.D.