Open Science Fellows

HHMI is focused on supporting and moving science forward in a variety of different ways ranging from conducting basic biomedical research, empowering educators, inspiring students, developing the next generation of scientists - even stretching into film and media production. Our Headquarters is in the greater Washington, DC metro area and is home to over 300 employees with expertise in investments, communications, digital production, biomedical sciences, and everything in between. The work housed here supports and augments the groundbreaking research conducted in HHMI labs across the nation. As HHMI scientists continue to push boundaries in laboratories and classrooms, you can be sure that your contributions while working here are making a difference.

Summary:

The HHMI is looking to hire two Open Science Fellows to join their Open Science Strategy team. Each Fellow will be assigned a primary project but will work on it collaboratively with the open science team and other HHMI colleagues. This opportunity offers recent PhD graduates or postdocs a pivot from a research career to a career in the non-profit research administration sector. In exchange, we expect the Fellows to bring fresh perspectives from their recent research experiences to their work at HHMI.

These newly created positions report to the Program Officer for Scientific Strategy and follow a hybrid schedule of three days per week in person at HHMI's headquarters in Chevy Chase, MD, and two days remotely.

The Open Science Fellow position has a one-year appointment, with the option to extend up to two years if mutually agreed between HHMI and the Fellow. Please note we are not able to sponsor a visa for this position.

What we provide:

• A direct role in supporting critical work that impacts HHMI's mission of advancing biomedical research for the benefit of humanity.

• A dynamic team that believes in collaboration, results-driven working styles, and continuous learning and cultivates a supportive environment where all members of the team can contribute and function at their highest level.

• A competitive compensation package that includes up to $10,000 in educational reimbursement each year and a significant budget for professional development!

What you'll do:

Open Science Fellow 1 - Communications Project
HHMI is seeking an Open Science Fellow to support the communication and promotion of open science practices within its research community. The Fellow will help develop a strategic approach to sharing impactful open science initiatives, highlight developments from an emerging research communication initiative, and write compelling stories that link open science practices to research impact. A background in biomedical research is essential to identify meaningful practices and collaborate effectively with the Open Science and Communications teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support initiatives that advance open science within the HHMI community.

• Research and gather information on open science practices.

• Create content for HHMI channels that communicate the impact of open science.

Open Science Fellow 2 - Peer Review Training Project
HHMI is seeking an Open Science Fellow to help facilitate the Transparent and Accountable Peer Review (TAP) Training, which prepares graduate students and postdocs to write collegial, constructive public peer review reports of preprints. Building on a successful 2024 pilot, the Fellow will support the 2025 program rollout, drawing on their research expertise to help grow and enhance this initiative.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in implementing the 2025 TAP training program.

• Recruit and coordinate with program participants.

• Review and edit peer review reports to ensure clarity and consistency prior to publication.

Both Fellows: Professional Development Opportunities
Fellows will benefit from structured training, mentorship, and networking to support their career growth. Each Fellow will have dedicated time to focus on their individual professional development goals. Opportunities include:

• Mentorship and networking with HHMI professionals in relevant fields.

• Peer connection with other Fellows across HHMI, including Tangled Bank Communications Fellows.

• Access to online courses and conferences on research administration and related topics.

What you bring:

• PhD or equivalent in a biomedical research field.

• Research lab experience (+4 years) required.

• Experience in scholarly communication (writing primary research articles, peer review reports, or review articles for broader audiences)

• Experience practicing and advocating for open science preferred.

• Strong communication and active listening skills

• Interpersonal and leadership skills to influence and build credibility with project teams and the scientific community.

• Must be skilled in working collaboratively and effectively with employees at all levels of the organization with the ability to influence others.

• Problem-solving skills, prioritizing and effectively progressing many competing priorities or ideas.

• Flexibility, adaptability, and creativity in helping to design new projects.

Application Instructions:
To apply, please submit a resume and a brief, one-page cover letter (required) that explains your motivations for applying for this role and which project interests you most.

Physical Requirements:

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. #LI-EG1

Compensation Range

$74,200 (minimum) - $80,500 (midpoint) - $91,000 (maximum)

Pay Type:

Annual

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer