It takes more than materials and methods to be a successful young scientist — it also takes means. With this in mind, the Hearst Foundations have given a gift of $250,000 to support exceptional junior postdoctoral fellows pursuing stem cell research at USC.

“Being able to support the stem cell fellows at USC is a necessary and vital step in advancing stem cell research and regenerative medicine. The Hearst Foundations are very excited to support these efforts at the Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research at USC,” said Paul “Dino” Dinowitz, executive director of the Hearst Foundations.

As Hearst Fellows, these postdoctoral researchers will launch their early scientific careers with a generous startup package, including salary and benefits for a full year.

They will enjoy access to world-class facilities and equipment — including the William Randolph Hearst Foundation Imaging Laboratory, supported by a previous $200,000 gift from the Hearst Foundations.

The Hearst Fellows will also connect with faculty and colleagues across the university through USC Stem Cell, a collaborative and multidisciplinary effort bringing together more than 100 researchers working to translate discoveries into cures.

As part of this vibrant USC Stem Cell community, the Hearst Fellows will have the resources to acquire the critical preliminary data needed to compete for nationwide awards and additional fellowships.

This gift from the Hearst Foundations in support of junior postdoctoral fellows comes on the heels of a gift from the Broad Foundation in support of senior postdoctoral fellows. Together, these two gifts enable USC to recruit and inspire today’s promising stem cell scientists — who will usher in tomorrow’s lifesaving stem cell-based cures.“By investing in the next generation of stem cell researchers, the Hearst Foundations is also investing in the next generation of treatments and cures for patients,” said Andy McMahon, director of the Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research at USC. “This gift demonstrates the foundation’s visionary commitment to cultivating young scientific minds and creating a broad and enduring impact on the nation’s health.”

— Cristy Lytal