Helen Hay Whitney Foundation

Helen way fellow

Helen Hay Whitney Foundation is a prominent philanthropic organization focused on supporting early postdoctoral research training in all areas of biomedical research. Established in 1947, the foundation is named after Helen Hay Whitney, a poet and the wife of Payne Whitney. The foundation's mission is to increase the number of imaginative, well-trained, and dedicated scientists by providing them with the opportunity to develop into independent, groundbreaking researchers. The foundation is known for its prestigious postdoctoral research fellowships which are highly competitive and sought after in the biomedical research community.

History

The Helen Hay Whitney Foundation was established to honor the memory and philanthropic legacy of Helen Hay Whitney. Since its inception, the foundation has been instrumental in supporting the early stages of careers for many scientists who have gone on to make significant contributions to biomedical research. The foundation's commitment to fostering new generations of scientists aligns with Helen Hay Whitney's lifelong support for education and scientific research.

Fellowship Program

The foundation's fellowship program is designed for postdoctoral researchers at the beginning of their career. The Helen Hay Whitney Fellowship provides funding for up to three years, allowing researchers to focus on their projects in a host laboratory without the immediate pressure of securing their own funding. The selection process is rigorous, emphasizing not only the candidate's past achievements but also the innovative nature and potential impact of the proposed research project.

Impact

Over the years, the Helen Hay Whitney Foundation has supported numerous researchers who have made groundbreaking discoveries in various fields of biomedical research. Alumni of the fellowship program often continue to contribute significantly to their fields, with many securing faculty positions at prestigious institutions and receiving further recognition and awards for their scientific contributions.

Application Process

The application process for the Helen Hay Whitney Fellowship is detailed and competitive. Candidates must submit a research proposal, letters of recommendation, and evidence of their academic and research achievements. The foundation places a strong emphasis on the quality of the research proposal, the potential of the applicant to become a leader in biomedical research, and the environment of the host laboratory.

See Also

• Biomedical Research
• Postdoctoral Research
• Philanthropy in Science