EDUCATION IS A LIFELONG PURSUIT
Perhaps the best thing about science is its limitlessness. There is always more to explore. More questions to ask. More possibilities to test. More data to uncover. At HMRI, we are perpetual students. We hope you are too, and we challenge you to dive deeper with us.
Perhaps the best thing about science is its limitlessness. There is always more to explore. More questions to ask. More possibilities to test. More data to uncover. At HMRI, we are perpetual students. We hope you are too, and we challenge you to dive deeper with us.
POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM
HMRI offers two formal postdoctoral fellowship programs. With a mission of training and inspiring the next generation of independent researchers, HMRI provides postdoctoral scientists opportunities to perform cutting-edge research alongside our accomplished physician-scientists. In collaboration with programs like Caltech, the University of Southern California's Keck School of Medicine, and other collaborators fellows advance their studies through innovative projects, new technologies, multi-disciplinary collaborations, networking opportunities and high-impact publications—all in our vibrant, state-of-the-art research facility here in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains in beautiful Pasadena.
POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM
HMRI offers two formal postdoctoral fellowship programs. With a mission of training and inspiring the next generation of independent researchers, HMRI provides postdoctoral scientists opportunities to perform cutting-edge research alongside our accomplished physician-scientists. In collaboration with programs like Caltech, the University of Southern California's Keck School of Medicine, and other collaborators fellows advance their studies through innovative projects, new technologies, multi-disciplinary collaborations, networking opportunities and high-impact publications—all in our vibrant, state-of-the-art research facility here in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains in beautiful Pasadena.
We are seeking highly creative and enthusiastic candidates to investigate scientific questions surrounding widespread health concerns. If you are committed to exploring unknowns, developing breakthrough therapies and improving lives, you could be part of one of our postdoctoral fellowship programs:
POST DOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM
Opportunities for investigative scientific research include:
- Aging and Alzheimer's disease
- Chronic migraines
- Heart failure and heart attacks
- Brain Development
- Neuropsychiatric disease (mental illness)
- Heart development
Applicants must select and apply for one of the following programs based on research interests, expertise and career trajectory:
1) Aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD) Research (Scientific Director: Dr. Robert A. Kloner): The project will investigate new mechanisms underlying the early stages of neurodegeneration associated with aging and AD. New tests to predict or detect early AD will be designed. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in neuroscience or cell biology, with experience in cellular/subcellular fractionation, western blot, immunoassay, and chromatography/mass spectrometry techniques. An interest in neurodegeneration will be highly valued.
2) Migraine Research (Scientific Director: Dr. Robert A. Kloner): Migraine is among the top 5 leading causes of "years lived with disability". The project will explore new fundamental mechanisms as to why and when a migraine starts and develop new treatment strategies. Studies will be conducted in animal models and patients. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in neuroscience, and expertise in rodent behavioral models, cell culture, immunohistochemical labeling, and gene expression techniques will be preferred.
3) Cardiovascular Research (Chief Science Officer and Scientific Director: Dr. Robert Kloner): The project will investigate new mechanisms and models in heart failure and cardiogenic shock and generate novel approaches to reduce cell death during heart attack. New pharmacologic therapies that protect the mitochondria during ischemia/reperfusion are a recent focus of the laboratory. In addition, the acute and chronic effects of the now popular electronic cigarette smoke or vaping on the cardiovascular system in normal young versus old hearts, as well as hearts with underlying heart disease will be carefully examined. Furthermore, the effect of pure nicotine on the heart will be studied. Candidates with a background in vascular and myocardial biology will be preferred. Experience in molecular and cell biology techniques, biochemistry, bioinformatics, and murine cardiac models are all considered strengths for this position.
4) Neuropsychiatric Disease Research (Scientific Director: Dr. Anju Vasudevan): Dr. Vasudevan has relocated her laboratory from McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School to HMRI (http://www.theabdl.org/). The project will investigate novel mechanisms underlying cell-autonomous programs that regulate endothelial and neuronal cell development in the forebrain, and uncover new causes for the origin of neuropsychiatric diseases like schizophrenia, autism, epilepsy and depression. The project will tap into the potential of CNS angiogenesis as a therapeutic source for recovery of neurological function in many diverse scenarios. The ideal candidate will have a relevant background either in neuroscience, developmental biology or cell biology with experience in endothelial cell culture, transgenic mouse models or stem cell biology.
5) Cardiovascular Research (Senior Research Scientist: Dr. Nicole Purcell): Dr. Purcell has relocated her laboratory from the University of California, San Diego to HMRI (https://profiles.ucsd.edu/nicole.purcell). The project will investigate a novel Ser/Thr phosphatase in the heart with age and following injury. In addition, the project will define the epigenetic mechanisms required for phosphatase mediated regulation of transcriptional changes that is important for cardiac homeostasis in young and aging mice. Using both in vitro and in vivo model systems we will determine novel targets that regulate cardiac growth and metabolic signaling with aging. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in molecular and cellular biology with expertise in primary cell culture, cardiac mouse models, biochemistry, bioinformatics, and myocardial biology.
Applicants must have completed a PhD, an MD, or an MD, PhD program and may have no more than five years of research training or experience since obtaining a doctoral-level degree.
The initial appointment will be for two years with the possibility of extension. Salary is determined based on MD/PhD receipt date according to a set salary schedule, which begins at $54,080.00 up to a maximum of $59,000.00 plus benefits. Postdoctoral fellows will also receive up to $2,500 annually to support computing, travel and research needs.
Number of Years | Average Annual Salary |
Less than 1 year | $54,080.00 |
1 year | $54,500.00 |
2 years | $56,000.00 |
3 years | $57,500.00 |
4 years | $59,000.00 |
Applications are accepted through http://bit.ly/HMRIpostdocapp.
Application materials should include a cover letter with a brief summary of career goals and objectives, CV, copies of published abstracts or papers and three letters of recommendation. Private letters of recommendation can be submitted using this form: http://bit.ly/postdocletter
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the positions are filled.
HMRI provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
JAMES BOSWELL POST DOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP
The James Boswell Postdoctoral Fellowship was established in 1974 to strengthen collaborative research efforts between Caltech and HMRI. Boswell Postdoctoral Fellows hold joint appointments at Caltech and HMRI. The research projects conducted by the fellows are of mutual interest to both institutions.
Personnel from both Caltech and HMRI are members of the selection committee. The chair of the committee rotates between Caltech and HMRI every three years. The Caltech Postdoctoral Scholars Office provides administrative support for the committee. The current members of the fellowship selection committee are:
- Dr. Anju Vasudevan (Chair), Neurovascular Research, HMRI
- Dr. Alfred Fonteh, Neurosciences Research, HMRI
- Dr. Brian Stoltz, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Caltech
- Dr. Azita Emami, Engineering and Applied Science, Caltech
- Dr. Yuki Oka, Biology and Biological Engineering, Caltech
- Dr. Robert Kloner, Cardiovascular Research, HMRI
The endowed funds that support these fellowships are managed by Caltech's Office of the Provost. Vice Provost Dr. Kaushik Bhattacharya currently serves as the principal investigator for the award. When spendable payout generated by the endowment is sufficient to support a postdoctoral scholar and there is mutual scientific interest between Caltech and HMRI, the selection committee convenes, and a search advertisement is placed. All candidate applications are reviewed by the committee and scientific interests are matched with mentors at both institutions.
When a Boswell Postdoctoral Fellow is selected, the Caltech Postdoctoral Scholars Office coordinates the appointment process (similar to prize fellowship appointments) with the appropriated divisions' academic affairs manager. Currently, Dr. Vasudevan is responsible for coordinating the HMRI affiliation.
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION SUPPORTING UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH EXPERIENCES (AHA SURE)
2025 Program Dates: June 16 – August 8
The American Heart Association (AHA) selected HMRI as a partner in the AHA Supporting Undergraduate Research Experiences (SURE) program. HMRI is the only independent biomedical research institute invited to join the program, typically offered through elite learning institutions.
This program will provide equitable experiences in cardiovascular research for three exceptional students who identify with groups historically underrepresented in STEMM fields—science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine.
Awardees selected for the highly selective AHA SURE Program will be mentored in cardiovascular research and neuroscience by HMRI faculty mentors and receive:
- $6,000 stipend
- Travel expenses (primarily air travel)
- Stipend for housing (for non-local students)
- Opportunity to attend AHA Scientific Sessions – All expenses paid
- Networking and other resources
The deadline to apply is MARCH 7, 2025 at 11:59 pm PST
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION SUPPORTING UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH EXPERIENCES (AHA SURE)
2025 Program Dates: June 16 – August 8
The American Heart Association (AHA) selected HMRI as a partner in the AHA Supporting Undergraduate Research Experiences (SURE) program. HMRI is the only independent biomedical research institute invited to join the program, typically offered through elite learning institutions.
This program will provide equitable experiences in cardiovascular research for three exceptional students who identify with groups historically underrepresented in STEMM fields—science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine.
Awardees selected for the highly selective AHA SURE Program will be mentored in cardiovascular research and neuroscience by HMRI faculty mentors and receive:
- $6,000 stipend
- Travel expenses (primarily air travel)
- Stipend for housing (for non-local students)
- Opportunity to attend AHA Scientific Sessions – All expenses paid
- Networking and other resources
The deadline to apply is MARCH 7, 2025 at 11:59 pm PST
Here are some general eligibility parameters for AHA SURE candidates. Learn more on the AHA website.
- Must be from underrepresented communities - Groups eligible include:
- Individuals from one or more racial and ethnic groups underrepresented in science, including: Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian/Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander
- LGBTQ+ individuals
- Individuals with disabilities, who are defined as those with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities
- Individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, defined as those who meet two or more of the following criteria:
- Were or currently are homeless
- Were or currently are in the foster care system
- Were eligible for the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program for two or more years
- Have/had no parents or legal guardians who completed a bachelor's degree
- Were or currently are eligible for Federal Pell grants
- Must be interested in a healthcare-related field.
- Must display exemplary academic performance.
- Must be full-time undergraduate, rolling into their sophomore, junior or senior year.
- Must be able to dedicate 8-10 weeks between the end of May and mid-August.
- Must present at a symposium at the end of the program.
- Must attend the AHA Scientific Session located in New Orleans, LA from November 8 - 10 (All expenses paid by AHA).
- Immigration requirements: At time of application, the student must be a United States citizen, or a foreign national holding a student, exchange or permanent resident visa, including an F-1, H1, H1B, J1, PR, TC or TN visa. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status requires additional AHA approval to apply. Send an email to Apply@Heart.org with an explanation of the student's status.
The deadline to apply is MARCH 7, 2025 at 11:59 pm PST
GET STARTED TODAY and direct to this URL: https://hmriorg.wufoo.com/forms/ztkpdio0hamlwd/
Prior to applying, be prepared to provide and upload the following:
- Contact Information
- Current school information
- Cover letter explaining your interest in the program and education/career goals
- Resume
- Copy of college/university acceptance letter
- Copy of most recent school transcript
Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) Program
The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) has a longstanding history at HMRI, benefiting more than 600 students through hands-on biomedical research and mentorship. Through the structured eight- to ten-week SURF program, students participate in the day-to-day workings of a research lab, develop a deeper understanding of the scientific process, and fine-tune practical laboratory techniques. HMRI's research faculty assigns each student to a biomedical research project on cardiovascular disease or neuroscience.
Due date for 2025 SURF program applications: March 7, 2025 at 11:59 pm PST
Program dates:
June 16 - August 8
Undergraduate scientists accepted into the program work alongside HMRI scientists and are mentored by HMRI research faculty. The SURF program offers a variety of biomedical research laboratory-based opportunities, including Alzheimer's disease, neurovascular research, migraine, vaping, e-cigarette cardiac toxicity, and cardiovascular signaling. The SURF program also provides safety training and academic and professional enrichment workshops/seminars. At the culmination of the program, SURF students discuss their experiences and present research findings. Upon completion, students will join an elite group of HMRI alumni who have gone on to advance their careers and become distinguished physicians, researchers, and executives in the biomedical industry.
Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) Program
The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) has a longstanding history at HMRI, benefiting more than 600 students through hands-on biomedical research and mentorship. Through the structured eight- to ten-week SURF program, students participate in the day-to-day workings of a research lab, develop a deeper understanding of the scientific process, and fine-tune practical laboratory techniques. HMRI's research faculty assigns each student to a biomedical research project on cardiovascular disease or neuroscience.
Due date for 2025 SURF program applications: March 7, 2025 at 11:59 pm PST
Program dates:
June 16 - August 8
Undergraduate scientists accepted into the program work alongside HMRI scientists and are mentored by HMRI research faculty. The SURF program offers a variety of biomedical research laboratory-based opportunities, including Alzheimer's disease, neurovascular research, migraine, vaping, e-cigarette cardiac toxicity, and cardiovascular signaling. The SURF program also provides safety training and academic and professional enrichment workshops/seminars. At the culmination of the program, SURF students discuss their experiences and present research findings. Upon completion, students will join an elite group of HMRI alumni who have gone on to advance their careers and become distinguished physicians, researchers, and executives in the biomedical industry.
- Applicants must be current undergraduate students enrolled in an academic program*.
- Applicants MUST be over 18 years of age.
- If accepted into the program, students are required to participate Monday through Friday, 9 am - 5 pm, in Pasadena, California, from June 16 - August 8. Housing and transportation are not covered or provided.
*Applicants do not need to be majoring in science. Students with general biology and/or general chemistry knowledge and an interest in conducting biomedical research are encouraged to apply.
The deadline to apply is MARCH 7, 2025 at 11:59 pm PST
GET STARTED TODAY and direct to this URL: https://hmriorg.wufoo.com/forms/ztkpdio0hamlwd/
Prior to applying, be prepared to provide and upload the following:
- Contact Information
- Current school information
- Cover letter explaining your interest in the program and education/career goals
- Resume
- Copy of college/university acceptance letter
- Copy of most recent school transcript
HIGH SCHOOL STEM PROGRAM
2025 Program Dates: Mon, June 16 – Fri, July 25
Morning Session: Mon through Fri, 9 am – 12 pm
Afternoon Session: Mon through Fri, 1 pm – 4 pm
HMRI proudly supports Pasadena High School students by providing STEM education opportunities for six weeks during the summer. Rising juniors and seniors can apply to either the morning or afternoon session. Students explore new topics each week under the guidance of enthusiastic mentors and science teachers, conduct independent research projects, and earn CPR certifications from the American Heart Association. Students leave this hands-on experience confident in their new laboratory skills and inspired by exposure to dynamic STEM careers.
HMRI High School STEM Program Curriculum:
Week 1: Research methods, instrumentation, and safety protocols
Week 2: Anatomy of the brain, heart and lungs
Week 3: Pathology and Radiology
Week 4: Genetics
Week 5: Bioinformatics and Environmental Science
Week 6: Symposium to present research projects
HIGH SCHOOL STEM PROGRAM
2025 Program Dates: Mon, June 16 – Fri, July 25
Morning Session: Mon through Fri, 9 am – 12 pm
Afternoon Session: Mon through Fri, 1 pm – 4 pm
HMRI proudly supports Pasadena High School students by providing STEM education opportunities for six weeks during the summer. Rising juniors and seniors can apply to either the morning or afternoon session. Students explore new topics each week under the guidance of enthusiastic mentors and science teachers, conduct independent research projects, and earn CPR certifications from the American Heart Association. Students leave this hands-on experience confident in their new laboratory skills and inspired by exposure to dynamic STEM careers.
HMRI High School STEM Program Curriculum:
Week 1: Research methods, instrumentation, and safety protocols
Week 2: Anatomy of the brain, heart and lungs
Week 3: Pathology and Radiology
Week 4: Genetics
Week 5: Bioinformatics and Environmental Science
Week 6: Symposium to present research projects
- Applicants must be rising juniors or seniors in a Pasadena Unified School District high school and demonstrate academic rigor in STEM courses.
- Students are required to commit to the entire six-week program, Monday through Friday, and select either the morning (9 am - 12 pm) or afternoon (1 pm - 4 pm) session.
The deadline to apply is MARCH 7 at 11:59 pm PST
APPLY TODAY and direct to this URL: https://hmriorg.wufoo.com/forms/zqkto0o1pz9q7i/
Prior to applying, be prepared to provide and upload the following:
- Contact Information
- Current school information
- Explanation of your interest in the program and education/career goals
- Resume
- Teacher recommendation form, access and submit here
YEAR-ROUND BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH INTERNSHIP
HMRI's year-round Biomedical Research Internship is an opportunity for current high school and undergraduate students. These aspiring scientists will work alongside leading biomedical researchers, gain valuable hands-on laboratory experiences, and benefit from mentorship. The internship focuses on diseases of the heart and brain, including Alzheimer's disease, migraine, vaping and e-cigarette toxicity, cardiovascular signaling, and neuroscience.
This is an exciting opportunity for students. Efforts are concentrated on finding a good fit between the student's research interests and their faculty mentor's expertise. Preference is given to students who can commit to the internship for a full year to develop academically and professionally. Interns in good standing can extend their internship with approval.
YEAR-ROUND BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH INTERNSHIP
HMRI's year-round Biomedical Research Internship is an opportunity for current high school and undergraduate students. These aspiring scientists will work alongside leading biomedical researchers, gain valuable hands-on laboratory experiences, and benefit from mentorship. The internship focuses on diseases of the heart and brain, including Alzheimer's disease, migraine, vaping and e-cigarette toxicity, cardiovascular signaling, and neuroscience.
This is an exciting opportunity for students. Efforts are concentrated on finding a good fit between the student's research interests and their faculty mentor's expertise. Preference is given to students who can commit to the internship for a full year to develop academically and professionally. Interns in good standing can extend their internship with approval.
- Applicants MUST be students currently enrolled in a high school, undergraduate, or graduate academic program.
- Preference is given to select students who are willing to commit to HMRI's biomedical research internship for one year. Students who can commit to at least a quarter/ semester will also be considered.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the positions are filled.
GET STARTED TODAY and direct to this URL: hmriorg.wufoo.com/forms/x1empexn00qtez8/
Prior to applying, be prepared to provide and upload the following:
- Contact information
- Current school information
- Cover letter explaining your interest in the program and education/career goals
- Resume
- Copy of college/university acceptance letter
- Copy of most recent school transcript