
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Our Headquarters is in the greater Washington, DC metro area and is home to over 300 employees. HHMI’s Investment team manages an endowment with net assets of approximately $29 billion, and invests globally through long-term partnerships with world-class external investment managers. HHMI’s endowment comprises a diverse portfolio, including investments in public equity funds, growth equity and buyout funds, venture capital funds, hedge funds, real assets and direct co-investments.
You will be part of a collegial 19-person Investment team and gain valuable experience in endowment management. The investment staff consists of a Public Markets team and Private Markets team. Associates may work with one or both teams, depending on individual and Institute needs, though a “generalist mindset” is highly desired. Exceptional performers will have the opportunity to build their career with HHMI. Though the associate position is meant to be a three-year appointment, many members of HHMI’s senior team, including the CIO, began their tenure on the investment team as associates.
In this role, you will support investment decision making in:
Manager identification, evaluation and diligence across multiple asset classes including public and private equities, hedge funds, and real assets
Monitoring and re-underwriting existing investments
Review of direct co-investment opportunities and special projects
Assessing attractiveness of global markets and investment strategies
Preparation of internal and investment committee reports for discussion
Education and Experience
The successful candidate will demonstrate an interest in investing and present a track record of accomplishment in their prior endeavors. We are looking for candidates who are genuinely excited about the impact that successful management of our endowment plays in supporting HHMI’s mission. If this role appeals to you, we encourage you to apply even if you are unsure about whether you meet all of the qualifications, experience or education described below.
Bachelor’s degree required; both pre- and post-MBA candidates considered.
Two to five years of related work experience in endowment management, direct investing, investment banking or management consulting, for example.
Skills and abilities
Superior analytical skills with a firm understanding of investment theory and financial markets
Excellent research and critical thinking skills; capable of synthesizing large amounts of data and information in a clear and concise manner
Strong written and verbal communication
Ability to take initiative, manage multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines
Willingness to make independent assessments and recommendations
Willingness to embrace a team-oriented outlook involving collaboration and fostering effective relationships with all colleagues
Willingness to travel globally to meet with existing and prospective investment partners
The position is for a three-year appointment. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
As part of your application, please submit:
A one-page cover letter which describes your interest in long-term investing and desire to work at HHMI’s investment office.
Your resume.
Physical Requirements:
Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).
Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.
Please Note:
This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. #LI-EG1
In addition to the base salary described below, this position is eligible to be considered for an annual bonus pursuant to an incentive compensation program.
Hiring Pay Range
Investment Associate – $118,020.00 - $147,525.00
Pay Type Annual
The posted range reflects HHMI’s good faith estimate of the anticipated hiring salary range for this role at the time of posting. Actual hiring compensation is determined by a candidate’s qualifications, experience, and internal equity.
Compensation and Benefits
Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.
HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.

Founded in 1953, HHMI invests in scientists at all career stages who make discoveries that advance human health and our fundamental understanding of biology. The institution also supports innovative approaches to science education and public engagement to energize the next generation of scientists, and to foster public appreciation for science. HHMI advances pathbreaking science at more than 60 host institutions across the US and at our Janelia Research Campus in Ashburn, Virginia, where — since its founding in 2006 — Janelia researchers have made discoveries and developed cutting-edge tools that have reimagined what's possible in science.