Synthetic Biology Fellows

Over the course of their time in the HIVE, Synthetic Biology Fellows develop independent research programs which harness the power of synthetic and systems biology to tackle real-world problems, including but not limited to: disease, climate, energy/food/fuel production, and sustainability.

The Opportunity for Fellowship:

The Synthetic Biology Initiative at Harvard Medical School provides an opportunity for exceptional early-career scientists to accelerate their entry into independent research by forgoing the traditional post-doctoral training period. Funds from the Synthetic Biology Initiative will support the fellow's salary, benefits, and research expenses for an initial period of 2 years, with the potential for annual renewals up to a total of 5 years. Synthetic Biology Fellows will have the freedom to develop their research program independently and/or in collaboration with faculty and researchers across the Harvard ecosystem.

Fellows will be embedded within the Synthetic Biology HIVE and have access to scientific technical, social, and professional support and resources. They will also have the opportunity to participate in the larger community of independent fellows (including the John Harvard Fellows, the Rowland Fellows, and the NSF-Simons QBio Fellows) who collectively represent a diverse cohort building innovative research programs across disciplines. 

The Details:

We accept applications on a rolling basis when positions become available. If you have questions, please e-mail synbiohive@hms.harvard.edu. Fellows must have completed a Ph.D. in a relevant field before starting their appointment, but we encourage applicants to apply when they begin writing their thesis.

The Application:

Please prepare the following materials: (1) Cover letter, (2) Curriculum Vitae, (3) Research Proposal (up to 5 pages), (4) Summary of previous research accomplishments (2-page limit), and (5) PDF’s of 3 of your publications. All files must be submitted electronically in PDF format. Formatting of all documents should be in 11 point font, single spaced, with one inch margins.

Letters of recommendation: During the application process, you will be asked to give the names and e-mail addresses of at least 3 referees who will be contacted automatically with a request to upload a letter of recommendation once the candidates’ application has been submitted. References must be received by the deadline. Please note, the application is considered complete only when at least 3 letters have been received.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions or any other characteristic protected by law.