The Gilliam Fellows Program provides awards to pairs of thesis advisers and their graduate students based on what HHMI values and considers essential components of the environment, particularly the institution and adviser’s commitment to creating a healthy academic ecosystem and the student’s potential for scientific leadership. Adviser-student pairs must be studying scientific problems in biomedical sciences, life sciences, or biological questions in related disciplines. Fellows are supported for up to three years. The award amount is $53,000 per year. All thesis advisors participate in a year-long, culturally responsive mentorship development course, which is a hallmark of the Gilliam program.