Epidemiology

Obtaining the J1 visa

Non-US citizens traveling to the United States from abroad as trainees must obtain a J1 visa.  Columbia University representatives will provide each accepted applicant trainee with information about applying for the J1 visa.  Visa applications take approximately eight weeks to process. We will reimburse all trainees for the costs associated with applying for the visa (totaling up to $350 USD) upon arrival.

Stipends

Short-term trainees who are accepted into the program will be appointed as Columbia University Postdoctoral Research Fellows and will receive a stipend of $4339 per month for the duration of their stay. Fellows will receive their first stipend payment approximately six weeks after arriving at Columbia, and once per month thereafter.

Travel

Air travel will be arranged by our travel agents. We will cover the costs of trainees’ air fare and reimburse trainees for their ground transportation on submission of receipts.

Other expenses

We will cover the costs of tuition for courses at Columbia and reimburse trainees for the costs of books and other materials directly related to their studies here on submission of receipts.

Where trainees work

While in New York, trainees will be based at the Mailman School of Public Health at the Columbia University Medical Center in Washington Heights, in Northern Manhattan.  Rich in history and culturally diverse, Washington Heights is home to beautiful parks, historic sites, and an array of restaurants.

Where to stay in New York City

It is recommended that fellows stay at the International House. “I-House” offers many activities and events that allow guests to make the most out of their time in New York, and brings together people from all parts of the globe. Several 2010-2011 trainees who stayed there have highly recommended it.

I-House is located in Morningside Heights, approximately 20-25 minutes by subway from the Mailman School of Public Health. A vibrant neighborhood with many restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and two beautiful parks (Riverside Park and Central Park), Morningside Heights is the home of the main Columbia University campus and is about 20 minutes by subway from Midtown Manhattan.

Rates and reservations at International house:

• 30-day or more stay If you are staying for more than 30 days, you can apply for the summer session. A variety of room set-ups are available, and rates range from $815-$1,355 per month. More information about rates here.
• Less than 30-day stay If you are staying in New York for less than 30 days, you can rent a student room at $60 per night, or a guest room, starting at $135 per night. See more details here.