Are you looking to pursue postdoctoral research in the United States? Great news! The Helen Hay Whitney Fellowship 2025-2026 is now open for applications. This fully funded postdoctoral scholarship supports international students, providing up to $77,000 annually to advance your career in biomedical sciences. Read on for detailed information about the fellowship, its benefits, eligibility criteria, and step-by-step application process.
What is the Helen Hay Whitney Fellowship?
The Helen Hay Whitney Fellowship is a prestigious postdoctoral scholarship designed to support young researchers in biomedical and medical sciences. Open to international students, this fellowship offers substantial financial aid to individuals seeking postdoctoral training in the United States. With a focus on supporting early-career scientists, it aims to foster the development of the next generation of medical and biological research leaders.
Scholarship Benefits
The Helen Hay Whitney Fellowship provides the following financial benefits:
| Year | Stipend | Research Allowance |
| 1st Year | $73,000 | $1,500 |
| 2nd Year | $75,000 | $1,500 |
| 3rd Year | $77,000 | $1,500 |
-
Travel Support: Travel funds for the fellow and family at the start of the fellowship and for annual meetings
-
Dependent Child Allowance: $1,500 per annum for each child
The fellowship also covers travel expenses for the two-day Annual Fellows Meeting held each November, providing a platform for scientific exchange and networking with peers.
Read Also: Goldsmiths International Response Scholarship (Undergraduate / Masters )2025: Fully Funded
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Helen Hay Whitney Fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
-
Degree: Must hold or be in the final stages of obtaining a Ph.D., M.D., or an equivalent degree.
-
Experience: No more than one year of postdoctoral research experience at the time of the application deadline.
-
Timeframe: Candidates must have completed their Ph.D. within two years of the application deadline or their M.D. within three years.
-
Visa Requirements: International applicants must obtain appropriate visa documentation to work in the US.
-
Research Location: Fellowships are available only for research conducted in laboratories in the US. Most applicants will be expected to reside in North America at the time of application.
-
Exclusions: Applications from advanced fellows or those seeking tenure in laboratories where they’ve already received extensive predoctoral or postdoctoral training will not be considered.
How to Apply for the Helen Hay Whitney Fellowship
Follow these steps to apply for the Helen Hay Whitney Fellowship:
-
Download Application Documents: Access and download the application form and the reference letter template.
-
Reference Letters: Send the reference letter template to four referees. They must email completed reference letters to (letters@hhwf.org).
-
Complete Application: Fill out the online application form and upload required documents, including a two-page cover letter and all supporting materials.
- Download form Application Items 1-6. Upon its completion, upload it along with the other requested items.
-
Submit Application: Ensure the zipped file with all required documents is submitted immediately after the two-page application cover.
- Complete your application form here.
Important Deadline: The application deadline is June 16, 2025, by 5:00 PM EST.
For more detailed instructions and to submit your application, please visit the official Helen Hay Whitney Fellowship website.
Conclusion
The Helen Hay Whitney Fellowship offers a unique and prestigious opportunity for early-career researchers to advance their postdoctoral training in the United States. With generous financial support, including a stipend of up to $77,000 per year, travel allowances, and dependent child benefits, this fellowship is an excellent choice for international students aiming to make significant contributions to biomedical and medical sciences.
However, the competition is fierce, so it’s important to carefully follow the application process and ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. If you’re ready to take your research career to the next level and gain valuable exposure in top US laboratories, the Helen Hay Whitney Fellowship could be the stepping stone you’ve been looking for. Don’t miss the chance to apply before the deadline of June 16, 2025. Best of luck with your application!
Have a question? Ask now!
Follow us on Instagram!