Our Community

Rising Stars Symposium

Salk Institute for Biological Studies - Our Community - Rising Stars Symposium

Rising Stars Symposium


Salk Rising Stars Symposium
Overview & Application Tips Workshop

Friday, November 14 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. PT

Register Today

We are pleased to announce the third annual Rising Stars Symposium at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies. This symposium is intended to recognize the accomplishments of outstanding postdoctoral trainees in the scientific workforce who have made foundational discoveries in their science and contributed to positive and meaningful societal outcomes beyond the lab.

The dates for the symposium are May 13-14, 2026.

During the symposium at the Salk Institute, selected candidates will have the opportunity to participate in the following:

  • Present their cutting-edge research in a dynamic symposium setting to refine ideas and spark future collaborations.
  • Network with fellow trainees and peers who are driving innovation across a broad spectrum of scientific fields.
  • Engage one-on-one with Salk Institute faculty to explore mentorship opportunities and build lasting professional relationships.

Travel costs and lodging accommodations associated with attending the symposium will be covered by the Salk Institute.


Eligibility

This opportunity is open to current postdoctoral researchers who are at least 1-2 years from entering the job market. Trainees of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

The application requires the following:

  • CV
  • Project abstract (250 words)
  • Career goals (250 words)
  • Broader Impacts Statement (250 words)
  • Letter of support from postdoctoral advisor (1 page)
*International postdoctoral trainees are eligible to apply, provided they hold a valid U.S. immigration status.

Rising Stars program brings underrepresented postdoctoral fellows to the Institute for the one-day Rising Star Symposium.

Application

The application deadline to be considered for the Rising Stars Symposium is December 15, 2025, at 11:59 pm PT.

Following the application deadline, the candidate’s postdoctoral advisor will be contacted and asked to submit a 1-page letter of recommendation by Friday, January 16, 2026. A link to upload the letter will be sent to the advisor’s email provided in the application form.

Click here to view the Rising Stars Scoring Rubric »

Apply Today

Contact Us

If you have any application questions, please contact us at community@salk.edu.