Supporting discovery in academic research labs
HHMI Investigators and Freeman Hrabowski Scholars lead collaborative lab teams in which scientists and professionals work closely together. Research Specialists and Technicians, Postdocs, computational experts, and lab operations staff contribute side by side, supporting experiments, problem-solving, and the day-to-day work that drives discovery
HHMI-supported labs benefit from stable funding and long-term scientific focus, allowing teams to pursue ambitious questions with continuity and depth. At the same time, they are fully embedded within colleges, universities, and research institutes, so HHMI employees are able to participate in the intellectual life and resources of their host institutions. This combination creates a research environment that is both rigorous and community-oriented.
Whether advancing research projects or keeping lab operations running smoothly, lab members play a direct role in supporting both scientific progress and one another’s success.
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CAREER AREAS
Positions at host institutions are posted as needs arise, so opportunities open throughout the year and vary by location. Candidates are encouraged to explore openings in the regions and institutions most relevant to them.
Research Specialists & Computational Roles (Advanced Expertise)
These roles bring advanced scientific and technical expertise to complex research programs. These roles may include laboratory-based specialists as well as computational and bioinformatics professionals who develop software, analyze large datasets, manage research databases, and support scientific computing. Specialists often lead method development, mentor trainees, and contribute independently to research projects in close partnership with lab heads and postdoctoral researchers. These roles typically require a PhD or equivalent experience.
Postdocs
Postdoc positions offer immersive research training within academic labs, in which scientists develop independent projects while contributing to ongoing research programs. Postdocs design and execute experiments, analyze data, write manuscripts, and present findings at scientific meetings, working closely with lab heads and other lab members. Appointments are typically time-limited, providing focused research experience while supporting scientific growth, mentorship, and preparation for the next stage of a research career.
Research Technicians (Early Career)
Research Technicians play a hands-on role in day-to-day laboratory research while building foundational scientific skills. These positions are well suited for early career scientists and recent graduates seeking experience in experimental research, advanced techniques, and lab operations. Technicians work closely with lab heads, Postdocs, and Research Specialists to support experiments, maintain workflows, and contribute to ongoing research projects.
Lab Operations & Administrative Support
Lab managers, administrative coordinators, and operations-focused staff support the day-to-day functioning of research labs. These roles span lab operations, purchasing and budgeting, compliance and safety, onboarding, scheduling, and coordination with host institutions and HHMI. Lab managers may have some research responsibilities, and play an essential role in enabling scientific discovery.
LIFE IN AN HHMI LAB
In HHMI labs, discovery happens together
Working in an HHMI-supported lab means being part of a dedicated team in which big ideas are shared, skills are developed, and progress is collective.
Team members benefit from professional mentorship, resources and community from HHMI and their host institutions, and meaningful roles in advancing research.
Our employees enjoy competitive pay, exceptional benefits, and supportive work/life programs, all within a culture of meaningful, mission-driven work
As part of HHMI’s broader compensation package, we offer eligible employees a variety of benefits programs.
- Competitive pay
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 403(b) retirement plan
- Paid time off and holidays
- Flexible spending accounts and commuter benefits
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development
“I really like that there’s a new and interesting challenge to address every day. And from my return-on-investment perspective, if my work can increase the efficiency of all 20 people in our lab by just 5 percent, then I have contributed the equivalent of an extra person’s scientific productivity. It’s an honor to be part of this phenomenal team in this exceptional research environment.”
James Spencer
Lab Manager I | Thomas Bernhardt & Johnathan Abraham Labs, Harvard Medical School
“Working at HHMI for 30 years, I’ve found that there is always so much to learn and so many projects to participate in. I’ve developed true friendships with the people I have met here. I’ve had mentors who encouraged me to learn as much as possible and to grow, and those relationships have motivated me to be a resource for others.”
Stephanie Seabrook
Science Operations Manager, Rockefeller University
“I enjoy being the guy behind the scenes. I pride myself on being reliable and accurate. Sometimes postdocs are hesitant to ask me to do something for them, thinking I am too busy, but I remind them it’s my job to help them. It gives me satisfaction to advance their projects. I feel like I’m fulfilling the promise I made to myself, to help people.”
Tommy Hyatt
Lab Manager II | Hobbs-Cohen Lab, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
“In my role, I get to contribute to the advancement of human knowledge, but from behind the scenes. I support our scientists from an administrative, operational, and financial perspective so they don’t have to worry about paperwork and can focus on what they do best — the science.”
Cindy Truong
Science Operations Associate, Harvard Medical School