Gilliam Fellows Program
The HHMI Gilliam Fellows Program supports PhD students and advisors in basic biological and biomedical sciences through funding, mentorship, and community to advance research excellence and inclusion.
Funder: Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Due Dates: September 1, 2026: Applications open | October 27, 2026: Applications close
Funding Amounts: $65,000/year for up to 3 years (PhD phase: $50,000 stipend, $5,000 discretionary, $10,000 institutional allowance); up to 4 additional years of postdoc support possible.
Summary: Early career fellowship supporting PhD students and their advisors in basic biological/biomedical sciences, with funding, mentoring, and community for research and inclusion.
Key Information: Cannot be held concurrently with another extramural fellowship (e.g., NSF GRFP, NIH F31).
Description
The program provides substantial support to second- and third-year PhD students in the basic biological and biomedical sciences at eligible U.S. institutions, in partnership with their thesis advisors. The fellowship delivers three years of funding, professional development, and community engagement to foster both scientific excellence and inclusive research environments. Fellows and their advisors participate in mentorship training and annual meetings. Upon completion of the PhD, fellows may apply for up to four additional years of postdoctoral support through a competitive process. The initiative is designed to empower the next generation of scientific leaders from diverse backgrounds and to promote inclusive practices in academic research.
