Diverse Inclusive Scientific Community Offering a Vision for an Ecosystem Reimagined (DISCOVER)
Salk Institute for Biological Studies

The Salk Institute for Biological Sciences Symposium for a Diverse Inclusive Scientific Community Offering a Vision for an Ecosystem Reimagined (DISCOVER) in academic research is designed to discover diverse talent and build a supportive, collaborative, and inclusive community.

Future postdoctoral candidates will be invited to the Salk Institute to present their research, connect with other trainees, participate in various professional development workshops and panels, and network with potential Salk faculty advisors to facilitate mentor-mentee pairing opportunities across disciplines of biology, a format not typically found in traditional postdoctoral interview formats.

The DISCOVER program will consist of a 3-day, all-expenses-paid program from July 23-25, 2025.

Who We Are

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We seek bold and interactive leaders passionate about exploring new frontiers in science. Our collaborative community embraces diverse perspectives and unique life experiences, fostering innovation, and a sense of belonging. Together, we strive to improve the wellbeing of humanity through groundbreaking research.

Founded by Jonas Salk, developer of the first safe and effective polio vaccine, the Institute is an independent, nonprofit research organization and architectural landmark: small by choice, intimate by nature, and fearless in the face of any challenge. Salk's vibrant community comprises a diverse and talented group of individuals, each playing a crucial role in driving our mission forward. From visionary leaders to dedicated administrators and brilliant faculty members, the Institute is united by a shared passion for scientific exploration and innovation.

Salk Values

The Salk Community, both scientists and administrators, worked together to define values that we believe support Salk’s pursuit of excellence. To be truly the best scientific institution requires not only incredible discoveries, but a common understanding of how we should work together to enable those discoveries.

This opportunity is open to current PhD students, ideally those 1-2 years from starting their postdoctoral training.

PhD students who identify as underrepresented according to the NIH or consider themselves underrepresented in STEM are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applicants must complete a brief online application and submit the following documents:

• Project Abstract
• Career Goals Statement
• Community Commitment Statement
• CV/Resume

Please review the links below before starting application questions. 

• DISCOVER Rubric Scoring

Application The application deadline to be considered for the DISCOVER Symposium is February 28, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. PT. 

If you have any questions regarding your application, please contact us at oei@salk.edu.