2027-2029 Postdoctoral Fellowships in Autism Spectrum Disorder (1-2-years)

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities and is among is the top ten research universities in the nation for federal research expenditures as well as for federally funded social and behavioral sciences research and development.

Here at Carolina, our highly skilled postdocs play a vital role in our research enterprise and towards our overall commitment to research excellence. Across many disciplines, postdocs contribute to the intellectual vitality of the University. They provide innovative ideas and perspectives, foster a stimulating research environment and advance knowledge within their fields. Postdocs are crucial members of our scientific research workforce, contributors to our research outputs and an important reason why Carolina is one of the leading public research institutions in the country.

UNC-Chapel Hill offers postdocs comprehensive medical and vision coverage, paid leave, and benefits and services that support professional development and a healthy work/life balance. Chapel Hill regularly ranks as one of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, a reputation guided by the diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

The UNC School of Medicine has a rich tradition of excellence and care with a mission to improve the health and wellbeing of North Carolinians, and others whom we serve. The UNC TEACCH Autism Program is housed within Carolina Institute for Neurodevelopmental Disabilities in the School of Medicine. Started in the late 1960s, the UNC TEACCH Autism Program's mission is to create and disseminate community-based services, training programs and research to enhance the quality of life for autistic individuals and their families across the lifespan. UNC TEACCH currently operates 7 outpatient clinics across North Carolina, a residential program, and an employment program. In addition, UNC TEACCH has a robust community-based research program and internationally acclaimed training program. We are committed to providing leadership and excellence in the interrelated areas of patient care, education, and research. TEACCH has a long tradition of training Psychology Interns and Postdoctoral Fellows in both clinical and research activities. More information about TEACCH is available via our website at www.teacch.com.

2027-2029 Postdoctoral Fellowships in Autism Spectrum Disorder (1-2-years)

For the 2027-2028 academic year, TEACCH has 3 fellowship positions available consisting of a combination of clinical and research activities. Clinical opportunities include diagnostic evaluations, individual therapy, and group treatment activities for individuals on the autism spectrum across the lifespan within TEACCH outpatient clinics. Intervention experiences include early intervention services, parent coaching, interventions for transition-age youth, adult dialectical behavior therapy groups, and adult residential care. Research opportunities include federally funded projects focused on autism in adolescence and adulthood under the direction of Dr. Laura Klinger, TEACCH director. Current projects include clinical trials examining the efficacy of transition to adulthood and mental health interventions and studies examining service use and needs across the adult lifespan including aging. TEACCH research infrastructure includes a database of more than 14,000 individuals diagnosed by TEACCH. The blend of clinical, teaching, and research activities will depend on the successful candidate's expertise and career interests.

The starting date for this one-to-two-year fellowship is flexible but no sooner than July 1, 2027. Stipend is commensurate with NIH guidelines, and includes health benefits, paid vacation and sick leave, and time to attend national conferences. A detailed description of university benefits is available at: http://postdocs.unc.edu/.

PhD required.

Requirements include previous training in clinical and/or research activities focused on autism. Fellows with backgrounds in a variety of disciplines (e.g., clinical, school, or developmental psychology, education) are encouraged to apply.

Prior experience on a high-performing team in academic medical or clinical setting.

Applications should include: a current curriculum vitae, a letter describing research interests and postdoctoral fellowship goals, specifying whether the applicant is interested in clinical, research, or a combination of clinical/research activities. To apply for the position, submit materials at https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/324183. Additionally, three letters of reference must be sent to Dr. Tamara Dawkins at tamara_dawkins@med.unc.edu.

Review of applications will begin on December 1, 2026, and continue until the positions are filled. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity employer and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, race, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.

Contact Information: For more information, contact Dr. Tamara Dawkins at tamara_dawkins@med.unc.edu or Laura Klinger at laura_klinger@med.unc.edu.

For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University's Office of Postdoctoral Affairs at (919) 962-9982 or send an email to opahr@unc.edu.

Please note: The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.