Farewell from Jim Gould, PhD

Dear HMS Postdoctoral Community,

I am writing to share that I will be departing Harvard Medical School and stepping down from my role as Director for Postdoctoral Affairs effective September 27th. I will soon be returning “home” to assume the role of Executive Director of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies at my alma mater, the University of Louisville School of Medicine.

Serving this community has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. For many years, I had the honor of working alongside an extraordinary group of postdocs, faculty, administrators, staff, and partners who are deeply committed to research excellence, professional development, integrity, mentorship, and the success of early-career scientists.

I have been continually inspired by your talent, resilience, curiosity, and dedication. Watching you all grow as scientists, educators, leaders, and professionals has been both rewarding and motivating. I am proud of what we have accomplished together, from expanding professional development opportunities and strengthening mentoring resources to fostering a more connected and supportive postdoctoral community.

Most importantly, I want to thank you. Thank you for your engagement, your feedback, your collaboration, and your trust. The relationships I have built through this role have enriched my life, and I will carry those experiences with me into the next chapter of my career.

While transitions inevitably bring change, I am confident that the HMS postdoctoral community will continue to thrive. The commitment to supporting your success remains strong, and I look forward to watching your future achievements from afar.

I wish each of you continued growth, fulfillment, discovery, and impact in your life, research, and careers.

With sincere gratitude and best wishes,

Jim Gould, PhD


Director for Postdoctoral Affairs

Harvard Medical School