Conduct research in the U.S. on a J-1 visa

Intrax sponsors graduate students and researchers to work with leading U.S. institutions across science, technology, and industry. We handle the J-1 visa so you can focus on your research.

Are you an academic institution or organization looking to host a research scholar? Learn more →

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Research that changes careers and crosses borders

The research you do here does not stay here. Every scholar who comes through this program returns home with new knowledge, new relationships, and a perspective that shapes their field for years to come.

Intrax has been a U.S. Department of State-designated J-1 Research Scholar sponsor since 2023, supporting research scholars across science, technology, health care, and industry. We are also a recognized supporter of the ECA Early Career STEM Research Initiative, reflecting our commitment to international scientific exchange.

Why participants choose Intrax

Services supporting you every step of the way.

Designated sponsor since 2003

Intrax has been designated by the U.S. Department of State to sponsor J-1 trainee visas since 2003 and intern visas since 2007 — giving you a trusted, experienced sponsor backed by decades of compliance expertise.

Fast DS-2019 processing

Receive your DS-2019 within 2 weeks of completing all documents, your phone interview, and payment — so you can move forward with your visa application without delays.

Dedicated program advisor

You are assigned a personal program advisor who provides guidance and support throughout your entire internship — from application to your last day in the U.S.

24-hour emergency support

If something unexpected happens during your program, our team is available around the clock to help — so you are never left dealing with issues alone.

Year-round start dates

Begin a role when it works best for you.

Global presence and connections

A trusted international network opening doors across industries and locations.

Conduct research in the U.S. on a J-1 visa

Become a research scholar in the U.S. with Intrax as an official sponsor of the J-1 visa. Our international scholars are graduate students that work with industry experts at research and academic institutions in the U.S. for the exchange of ideas and mutual enrichment.

Broad Organizational Reach

We sponsor programs at private sector organizations as well as at universities, non-profit organizations, governmental organizations, and medical and research institutions.

Gain invaluable experience

Your research will facilitate the exchange of ideas, grow your knowledge, and strengthen international connections for mutual enrichment.

Simplify the hard stuff

Our team will walk you through the process to complete your application, paperwork, and prepare for the visa interview.

Research fields we support

Don't see your field? Contact us, and we'll let you know if we can support your program.

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Science & Technology

Biotech & Pharmaceuticals
Computing & Software
Electronics & Engineering
Energy & Environmental Science
Health Care & Medical Research
Defense & Aerospace
man wearing black jacket holding rod

Industry & Manufacturing

Automotive
Chemicals
Industrial Manufacturing
Communication Technologies
white wooden shelves

Academic & Interdisciplinary

Academic Research
Education & Social Sciences
Arts & Humanities
International Studies

What we offer

Conduct research with industry experts

Intrax supports research scholars across a wide range of fields, including aerospace, biotech, computing, defense, energy, health care, industrial manufacturing, and more. If your field is not listed, contact us to confirm eligibility.

Flexible program length

Research scholars can remain in the U.S. for as little as three weeks or as long as five years within a single continuous program, giving you the flexibility to complete your research on your own timeline.

Frequent check-ins

Our Program Advisors check in regularly with both you and your host organization throughout your program to monitor progress and provide support whenever it is needed.

Cultural exchange

The Research Scholar program is built around the belief that cross-cultural collaboration produces better research. You will bring a global perspective to your host institution and return home with new knowledge, new connections, and a broader view of your field.

Key program information

Eligibility for Research Scholars
Field
This category is for a foreign national who enters the United States for the primary purpose of conducting research, observing or consulting in connection with research projects at research institutions, corporate research facilities, museums, libraries, post-secondary accredited academic institutions, or similar types of institutions. A research scholar may also teach or lecture, unless disallowed by the sponsor.
Education
A graduate degree or on a Ph.D. track, but minimally the equivalent of a four-year bachelor’s/undergraduate degree plus at least three years of professional experience in the proposed research field.

Not a current candidate for a tenure track position.
English Skills
Possess sufficient proficiency in the English language to successfully participate in the program.
Visitor Eligibility
Not been physically present in the United States as a non-immigrant for all or part of the 12-month period immediately prior to the Research Scholar program (except for exceptions noted in 22 CFR 62.20(d)(2).
Professionalism
Demonstrate the necessary maturity and competency to participate successfully at a host organization and adapt to life in an international and professional setting.
Eligibility for Host Organizations
Terms
Host organization will be required to submit the host organization application & agreement to Intrax.
Interview
Intrax will conduct a call with the proposed host organization to 1) Confirm the host organization’s understanding of the J-1 Research Scholar Program, 2) Review the proposed research scholar program, and 3) Review the program monitoring and evaluation plan.
Assessment
Intrax will assess the host organization’s suitability for hosting a research scholar including availability of human resources, physical resources, host organization history including the history and experience of the host organization as it relates to the proposed research program.
How it works
Step 1 — Apply online
Submit your application and share details about your research focus, proposed host organization, and program dates. Our team will review your information and follow up promptly.
Step 2 — Confirm your host organization
You must have a confirmed position with a U.S. research institution or academic organization before we can begin processing your J-1 sponsorship. If you need help identifying a suitable host, contact us and we will advise.
Step 3 — Receive your J-1 sponsorship
Once your application and documentation are reviewed and approved, we issue your DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility and guide you through the visa application process step by step.
Step 4 — Begin your research program
With your J-1 visa in hand you are ready to start. Your Intrax Program Advisor remains available throughout your program to support you if anything comes up along the way.

Ready to get started?

Our team will guide you through every step, from application to arrival.

Still have questions? Check our FAQ or contact us directly.

Alliances and Partnerships

Through our cultural exchange programs, Intrax seeks to build bridges of understanding and shape the world through citizen diplomacy.