Fred Hutch is seeking applications for the 4th Annual Dr. Eddie Méndez Scholar Award which recognizes outstanding postdoctoral fellows from any discipline who are conducting research related to cancer, infectious diseases, or basic science. The award was created to recognize Dr. Méndez’s commitment to cancer research and to supporting early-career underrepresented minority scientists and scientists with disabilities.

This award recognizes the achievements of post-doctoral fellows from backgrounds that are underrepresented in science based on the NIH definition, which includes individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups (Blacks or African Americans, Hispanics or Latinos, American Indians or Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders), individuals with disabilities, and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. A selection committee consisting of Fred Hutch faculty will select up to six awardees. A honorarium and all expenses related to travel and accommodations will be provided by Fred Hutch.

Awardees will present at a scientific symposium honoring Dr. Eddie Méndez and have the opportunity to meet with Fred Hutch faculty and senior leaders. Our hope is to hold this event in person on the Fred Hutch campus in Seattle September 19-20, 2022. This is subject to change given the current uncertainty related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

At Fred Hutch we believe that the innovation, collaboration, and rigor that result from diversity, equity, and inclusion are critical to our mission of eliminating cancer, infectious diseases, and understanding mechanisms of disease. Fred Hutch is in pursuit of becoming an antiracist organization. We are thus committed to supporting the diversification of academia. More information about our efforts to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion can be found at www.fredhutch.org/diversity.

Dr. Mendez who died of cancer in 2018, specialized in treating head-and-neck cancer, an often disfiguring and debilitating disease. It was his mission to save lives and improve the well-being of cancer patients, whether through spearheading minimally invasive robotic surgery for these tumors (he was the first in Washington state to perform such surgery), or through tirelessly developing new treatments in his laboratory at Fred Hutch.

Qualifications

This symposium is dedicated to recognizing six post-doctoral fellows from populations underrepresented in science consistent with the NIH definition (as described above) from across the nation. Applicants can be from any discipline (e.g., public health science, clinical research, basic science, and translational research) who are conducting research related to cancer, HIV, or other infectious diseases.

Application link: https://apply.interfolio.com/98987

Required Application Materials:

• CV
• Research statement (1 page)
• Personal statement (1/2 page) •
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion statement (1 page)
• Faculty Letter of Support

Personal Statement: Eddie Mendez was not only recognized as an outstanding researcher, but he was also committed to family and community. Those in his lab frequently spoke about his dedication to mentoring young scientists. Please write a personal narrative that supports how you exemplify these values.

Faculty Letter of Support: Please identify a faculty member with knowledge of you and your research who is willing to provide a letter of recommendation in support of your application. Note that it is not necessary that this letter of support be from your primary mentor.

Identify the Division(s) at Fred Hutch that are most closely aligned with your scientific interests and research.

Questions? Please contact Sara Cole scole2@fredhutch.org