Ragon Institute About
Launched in 2021, this unique fellowship supports innovative and talented scientists for up to five years, with two distinct tracks: the Basic Science track for PhD or MD/PhD candidates with no postdoctoral training (including PhD students in their last year of graduate school) and the Clinician-Scientist track for MD or MD/PhD candidates who have completed clinical subspecialty training with the past two years. All candidates should demonstrate a record of exceptional achievement in basic or translational research and the potential to develop an outstanding independent research program aligned with the mission of the Ragon Institute. Candidates should have the ability to work collaboratively with other scientists and the scholarly qualities required to mentor trainees. Innovative scientists working in translational or basic biomedical research bringing novel approaches from engineering, physical sciences, computation and structural biology, as well as those with unique experience in microbiology, virology or immunology will be strongly considered. Expertise in the HIV field is not required.
Fellows receive a generous start-up package, including salary support, fringe benefits, dedicated laboratory and office space, research support, administrative support, and access to advanced research facilities facilities including advanced flow cytometry, microscopy, BSL-3 facilities, and an extensive clinical specimen repository. Clinician-scientists will have the opportunity to be part of leading academic clinical divisions. Fellows are additionally eligible to apply for external funding and additional internal Ragon Institute funds.
A mentorship committee composed of Ragon Institute senior faculty and Mass General, MIT, and Harvard faculty will advise the Fellow on their research program, trainee mentorship, and long-term research strategy. Fellows will also join the community of Kendall Square Fellows from the Whitehead, Broad, McGovern, and Koch Institutes.
This program is ideal for those with a demonstrated record of excellence in basic or translational research who have recently completed or about to complete their graduate training and are pursuing any area of biology that synergizes with the mission of the Ragon Institute. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, inviting the next generation of scientific leaders to help shape the future of biomedical research.
Current Fellows
Application Materials
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. The 2024 application cycle is now open and you can apply below. If you have questions about this program or would like more info, please email [email protected].
Meet a Fellow
Read our Q&A with Dr. Sophia Liu, one of the Ragon Early Independence Fellows, as she shares her journey to launching an independent research lab. The Early Independence Fellowship provides exceptional scientists like Dr. Liu with the unique opportunity to pursue groundbreaking research without traditional postdoctoral training. Dr. Liu discusses her background, her innovative work studying cell interactions and human immunity, and what inspired her to join the Ragon Institute.
Career Opportunities
Whether you are an early-career scientist looking for the next step in your career, or a seasoned administrative professional — The Ragon is committed to bringing the best and brightest together.
Fellowships
The Ragon fosters and trains the next generation of scientists through mentorship and opportunity. Our fellowship and internship programs are dedicated to helping young researchers launch their careers in the world of science.