Date:	________________________
To:	________________________
From:	________________________, Scientific Director, (IC)___________
Subject:	Your Extension Under the 5 Year/8 Year Rule

It is the general policy of the NIH that postdoctoral trainees should not remain in the Intramural Research Program for more than five years. The overall limit is 8 years, regardless of appointment mechanism, unless the individual has been approved for a tenure track, tenure, or Staff Scientist/Clinician, or Research Assistant positions. For any request to retain a fellow in any other temporary capacity beyond 5 years, there must be either 1) an extraordinary, documented programmatic need, and/or 2) a clearly identified career path, such as preparing the individual to compete for a staff scientist, tenure-track, or other extended appointment in the Intramural Research Program.

Version 1:

Consistent with this policy, we are renewing your appointment as a ____________ for a (terminal) _____ year not-to-exceed (N.T.E.) ____(date)____ to allow you to complete your research. This is the final extension to be awarded.

Version 2:

You will reach the 8 year maximum period on ____(date)____ and cannot be extended beyond that date. We are renewing your appointment not to exceed (N.T.E.) _____(date)_____ to allow completion of your research.

I hope that during this time period you will be successful in concluding your research and training in preparation for a position outside NIH.

__________________________________, Scientific Director

 I have read and understand the above provisions.

 

________________________________ (Signature)

_______________________ (Date)