Harvard Medical School — Research Fellowship
Boston, Massachusetts · Research Fellowship
Always confirm details on the official institution page before applying. Requirements, fees, and deadlines can change.
About this program
The Harvard Medical School / Harvard School of Dental Medicine Office for Postdoctoral Fellows (OPF) is the central support office for postdoctoral fellows across HMS and HSDM. Per the OPF mission statement: 'works to enhance the development and experience of the postdoctoral community. Through a combination of administrative initiatives and educational activities, the OPF actively assists postdoc fellows in obtaining the skills necessary to pursue their careers in science and beyond.'
For IMG physicians: most postdoctoral research positions at Harvard are PI-direct. Identify an HMS faculty member working in your research area (use Harvard Catalyst Profiles or department websites), contact directly with your CV + research interest, and apply through their lab once a fit is established. OPF coordinates institutional onboarding and J-1 visa sponsorship after a PI agrees.
Postdoctoral funding at HMS is typically $55,000-70,000/year depending on department and grant source; J-1 visa sponsorship is standard for international scholars.
Duration is typically 1-3 years.
Quick highlights
Strong points
- Stipend-payingReceives a paid stipend (rare for IMG observerships)
- Multi-specialty (5+)Placement available across multiple clinical departments
Fees, duration & what it costs
What's included
- 1-3 years of structured clinical experience
- Placement in your chosen specialty across 5 departments
- Direct supervision by attending faculty
- Rounds, case discussions, and bedside teaching participation
How to apply
- Identify a faculty host or coordinator at the program.Many IMG observerships require a faculty sponsor BEFORE you can apply. Use the contact email in the sidebar.
- Submit your application packet directly to the program.Typical packet: CV, USMLE scores or ECFMG certificate, letter of intent, proof of funding, immunizations, and (for INTL) translated medical license.
- Pay any required application or program fee.Many programs charge a non-refundable application fee + per-rotation program fee. See the cost tile above for this program's specific amounts.
- Complete pre-arrival paperwork and visa coordination.Most IMG observerships do not sponsor educational visas — applicants travel on B-1/B-2 visitor status. Confirm before booking travel.
Available specialties
Eligibility requirements
MD/MBBS or PhD, strong academic record, publications, faculty sponsor | Visa: J1, H1B (limited)
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