Applying to Host an Officer

At a glance

  • The Laboratory Leadership Service (LLS) host site application period is August 3–September 13, 2026.
  • Add a skilled PhD scientist to your laboratory team at no cost by hosting an LLS officer.
  • Learn more about the LLS host site application process and note key dates.
Class of 2020 LLS fellow Christine Lee processes samples during a deployment for a University of Wisconsin COVID-19 antigen study.

Why host an officer

As a host site laboratory, your team benefits from adding a high-caliber scientist at no cost. This also provides an LLS officer with unparalleled laboratory training experience.

LLS officers are exceptional PhD scientists who are trained by the LLS program in core public health competencies, such as leadership, laboratory operations, quality management, biosafety and risk assessment, and communications. LLS officers add value to any lab team. The supervision and mentorship you provide as a host site supervisor helps prepare officers to be laboratory leaders with key values in laboratory science, quality, and safety; fosters long-term partnerships; and ultimately shapes the public health workforce.

Click on the following links to learn about the application process for host laboratories. The application process is the same for all laboratories, regardless of location (e.g., state or local public health laboratory versus CDC headquarters laboratory). The LLS program provides application coaching and feedback for all applicants. New applicants are encouraged to meet with the LLS program for a virtual coaching session. Be sure to note key dates below.

  1. Check eligibility
  2. View informational webinars for host site applicants
  3. Request a virtual coaching session with LLS program
  4. Prepare host site application
  5. Submit an application

Key dates

August 3, 2026

Host site application portal opens. Host sites are encouraged to consult with the LLS program (LLS@cdc.gov) for application coaching.

September 13, 2026

Host site application portal closes.
By October 9, 2026
LLS notifies host site laboratories that will participate in the match process.
January 2027
Host sites participate in match interviews with selected candidates.
By February 12, 2027
Notice of match status and officer assignments.

August 2027

Officers report to their host site laboratory assignments.