Rising Stars Symposium

We are pleased to announce the third annual Rising Stars Symposium at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies. The 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 your 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 diverse 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.

Who We Are

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that values all members of our scientific community. We seek bold and interactive leaders passionate about exploring new frontiers in science. Our collaborative community embraces perspectives across discipline, professional acumen, 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 has many talented individuals from varied backgrounds, 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.

The acronym “I CARE” provides a simple way to remember each of the values and reminds each of us of the importance of what we do each day.

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.

Application instructions : Please submit the following required details below :

• CV
• Project abstract (250 words)
• Career goals (250 words)
• Broader Impacts Statement (250 words)
• Letter of support from postdoctoral advisor (1 page)

Please review the links below before starting application questions.

Rising Stars Scoring Rubric

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

Post-doctoral trainees are welcome to apply with or without a nomination. 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.

Contact Us

If you have any questions, please contact us atcommunity@salk.edu.