WRF Postdoctoral Fellowship at Washington Research Foundation, Seattle, USA

About the Fellowship

The WRF Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025 is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for exceptional early-career scientists in life sciences and enabling technologies. Offered by the Washington Research Foundation (WRF), this fellowship empowers researchers to conduct independent, high-impact work at leading nonprofit research institutions across Washington State, such as the University of Washington and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center. The program is designed to accelerate breakthrough scientific discoveries that have real-world applications in health, technology, and biotechnology, while also fostering regional innovation and collaboration.

Fellowship Details

Position: WRF Postdoctoral Fellow
Institution: Leading nonprofit research institutions in Washington State
Administering Body: Washington Research Foundation (WRF)
Location: Seattle, Washington, USA
Research Field: Life Sciences and Enabling Technologies
Type: Full-time, Postdoctoral Fellowship
Duration: Up to 3 years
Start Date (Anticipated): January 1, April 1, July 1, or October 1, 2026
Working Hours: As per institutional norms
Funding/Compensation:
- Total funding up to USD 277,500
- Includes salary, employee benefits, and research support
Required Degree/Diploma: Ph.D. or equivalent in a relevant discipline

Research Areas Supported

Biology
Biomedical Sciences
Biotechnology
Bioengineering
Computer Science
Enabling and interdisciplinary technologies

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Ph.D. (or equivalent) in life sciences, engineering, computer science, or related fields
Not employed as a postdoc at the host institution for more than 12 months before fellowship start
Must be nominated by a faculty member at an eligible Washington State nonprofit research institution
Research must take place in Washington State

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong publication record
Clear and innovative research proposal
International research or collaboration experience

Fellowship/Job Benefits

Fully funded salary support
Annual research allowance
Professional development resources
Institutional mentorship
Potential for commercialization or startup support
Visa sponsorship (subject to host institution policies)

Key Responsibilities

Conduct high-quality, independent research aligned with WRF’s mission
Collaborate with host faculty and institutional researchers
Produce publications and disseminate findings
Participate in community and academic events
Submit progress reports and final outcomes

Application Process

How to Apply:

Must be nominated by a faculty member from a Washington-based nonprofit institution
Submit application materials through the official online portal
Application Portal: https://www.wrfseattle.org/grants/wrf-postdoctoral-fellowships/

Required Documents:

Application form
Updated CV
Detailed research proposal
Three letters of recommendation
Institutional nomination letter

Important Dates

May 1, 2025: Applications open
May 12 & June 4, 2025: Information sessions (via Zoom)
June 26, 2025: Application and recommendation letters due
August 29, 2025: Interview decision notifications
September 25–26, 2025: Interviews via Zoom
October 31, 2025: Final selection results
Fellowship Start: January 1, April 1, July 1, or October 1, 2026

Where to Apply

Institution Website: www.wrfseattle.org
Fellowship Posting: WRF Fellowship Page
Application Portal: Apply Here
Contact for Queries: grants@wrfseattle.org