Join the HEART-GeN research group

Join Us!

Join the HEART-GeN Lab: A Career in Cutting-Edge Neuroscience

Are you passionate about unraveling the mysteries of genetic ancestry, epigenetics, and brain disorders? Join the HEART-GeN research group and be part of groundbreaking discoveries that are shaping the future of neuroscience.

We are seeking highly motivated individuals to join our team at various levels, including:

• Postdoctoral Fellows:
  • Open position: Bioinformatics (snRNA-sequencing experience)
  • F99/K00
• Graduate Students:
  • NUIN PhD program
  • DGP PhD program
  • MSTP MD/PhD program
• Post-Baccalaureate Students:
  • NUIN
  • General
• Undergraduate Students
• High School Students

Why Join the HEART-GeN Lab?

• Cutting-Edge Research: Work alongside world-class researchers on innovative projects that are advancing our understanding of the human genome and its impact on health.
• Collaborative Environment: Be part of a supportive and collaborative team that values mutual respect and intellectual curiosity.
• Mentorship and Professional Development: Receive personalized mentorship and guidance from experienced scientists to develop your skills and career goals.
• Opportunities for Growth: Explore various research areas and gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge techniques and technologies.

Interested in working with us? Want to volunteer or learn more about our research?

HEART-GeN Summer Scholar Program

The HEART-GeN Summer Scholar Program is a paid, full-time (10-week) summer research experience hosted by the HEART-GeN Lab on Northwestern’s medical campus in Chicago.

This is a defined enrichment program, not a general assistantship. Scholars complete a structured curriculum in computational biology, genomic neuroscience, and scientific communication; contribute to active research; and leave with a written report, final presentation, and mentorship network.

Scholar Tracks

• Underclassmen Scholar (incoming first-year students and rising sophomores)
  • Stipend: $4,000 (fixed, 10 weeks)
  • For incoming first-year students (fall enrollment confirmed) or rising sophomores
  • Not currently eligible for or enrolled in any Northwestern-sponsored undergraduate summer research program
  • No prior research experience required
• Upperclassmen Scholar (rising juniors and rising seniors)
  • Stipend: $7,000 (fixed, 10 weeks)
  • Open to students at any accredited college or university
  • Requires at least one academic year of prior research experience (any field)
  • Not eligible for Northwestern SROP

Program Snapshot

• Duration: 10 weeks, full-time (40 hours/week)
• Location: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
• Format: In-person

Application Timeline

• Application deadline: March 27, 2026
• Applications are now open: Apply here

Application Materials

• All tracks:
  • Brief statement on why HEART-GeN and your interests (250 words max)
  • 1-page resume
• Underclassmen Scholar only:
  • Unofficial transcript or coursework list
  • Describe a time you worked through a difficult problem (does not need to be academic)
• Upperclassmen Scholar only:
  • Brief description of prior research (2-3 sentences): what lab, what you did, and what you learned

Students from groups historically underrepresented in genomics, neuroscience, and computational biology are especially encouraged to apply.

Contact Us

Feel free to use the contact form – we would love to hear from you!