These resources are to help new postdocs navigate life in Boston and familiarize them with resources at The Brigham. The Mass General Brigham’s Office for Global Professionals and Scholars (GPS) also has resources which may be useful to postdocs. We do not own the content at these websites so please use your own judgment and check eligibility from the source directly when looking into those resources.
Postdoc Resources
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Housing
Mass General Brigham is not able to offer employee or student housing, nor do we have any special discount for Harvard housing. The following information will help you learn more about Boston-area housing and finding an apartment.
MGH GPS resource page on Finding an Apartment
This webpage, created by the MGH GPS, includes extensive information on how to navigate finding an apartment in Boston. This includes:
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What to know before you start looking for an apartment
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Realtors (searching with or without)
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Questions to ask a potential landloard
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Renter’s insurance
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Tenants’ rights and responsibilities
We strongly encourage postdocs to explore this page for the above information before searching for an apartment.
Where to Look for an Available Lease
The housing market in Boston moves fast, so we recommend that postdocs be ready to sign a lease soon after touring an apartment that meets all of their needs. The following websites are a good place to start looking for available apartments, and the number of the broker is usually listed so that those interested can call and schedule a tour.
Harvard also provides housing resources and support for students, faculty, and employees:
Facebook groups are also a useful place to look for housing, especially if postdocs are searching for roommates or a temporary place to sublease.
Avoiding Scams
The City of Boston provides several tips on avoiding apartment scams. Never, under any circumstances, send money to anyone without securing a lease and confirming the property manager has legal right to rent the property. Common scams feature an owner/landlord who is out of the country and cannot show the property. Scammers use a variety of tools and methods to post fraudulent listings on many internet listing sites so be cautious when reviewing online ads.
MGB Employee Assistance Program
The Mass General Employee Assistance Program is available to help with a range of housing-related issues. This includes housing crisis resources and support for eviction and foreclosure. For more information visit this webpage.
The BWH Main Campus (75 Francis St) is located in the Longwood Medical Area (LMA) / Mission Hill neighborhood. Some of the Boston neighborhoods in close proximity to campus include Mission Hill, Brookline, Fenway/Kenmore and Jamaica Plains. Other popular neighborhoods farther out from the hospital but still worth exploring include Cambridge, Allston, and Brighton. In particular, Central Square in Cambridge has easy access to the Harvard M2 Shuttle for those with a Harvard ID (see Transit section for more information). Somerville may also be convenient for those who work at the Assembly Row MGB location.
To learn more about different Boston neighborhoods, visit The City of Boston’s website. For a map of the locations of the Boston neighborhoods relative to each other click here.
We are pleased to announce that we are offering a “Lease Guaranty Program” for Brigham and Women’s Hospital Research Fellows.
Through the Lease Guaranty Program, BWH will guaranty payment to a landlord under specified circumstances. The Lease Guaranty program does not provide cash or money in any form. The benefit of this program is that instead of a trainee providing an advanced payment, a landlord will accept the Lease Guaranty document and its conditions. In return, a Research Fellow agrees to reimburse BWH for any payment BWH is required to make under the Guaranty.
The Guaranty has been accepted in the past by these properties listed in the Boston area. We are optimistic that the terms of this Guaranty will be acceptable to many other landlords as well.
Eligible Research Fellows may offer the Guaranty to any landlord they wish. If a landlord accepts the terms, a landlord is eligible to participate.
For more information, please visit our Lease Guaranty Program webpage.
Transit & Hospital Navigation
Commuter Rail, Subway, and Buses
Easy access to public transportation (buses, trains, ferries/boats, etc.) for everyday travel is available around Boston. The public transportation service is called the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) and is generally referred to as the “T.” To view a map of the subway system click here.
The T stops near the BWH main campus (75 Francis St) are on the E Green Line (Longwood Medical Area and Brigham Circle). There are bus routes with stops in the Longwood Medical Area (39, CT2, 8, 19, 47, 66, and CT3). Additionally, there is a free shuttle service from Ruggles Station (Orange Line) to various stops in the Longwood Medical Area. This is convenient for those taking the commuter rail to the city or those who live closer to the Orange Line. For more information on the shuttle services visit the “Free Shuttles” tab in this section.
MGB offers MBTA passes at discounted rates as an employee perk. Applications for a pass are found on PeopleSoft. For more information on how to apply click here.
Bluebikes
Interested in biking to work? Boston is a very bike-friendly city with lots of designated bike lanes. The City provides both electric and classic bike options through its Bluebike System. There are multiple Blue Bike stations in the Longwood Medical Area, to view a map of the stations in Boston click here.
Planning Routes to BWH
To navigate public transit, we recommend downloading the app Transit, which typically displays fairly accurate estimates of when trains/buses are arriving. It will also allow for users to plug in a destination and offer some potential routes.
The MBTA also provides a trip planner which can be found here. Apple/Google Maps is also useful for navigating transit.
Longwood Collective Shuttles
The LMA Shuttle All-Ride program allows employees and students of all LMA medical institutions to ride many of the shuttles servicing the area for free! To learn more about shuttle routes and schedules visit the Longwood Shuttles website.
Harvard M2 Shuttle
The Harvard M2 Shuttle is free with a Harvard ID and runs between the Cambridge Harvard Campus/Central Square and the Longwood Harvard Medical School (just north of BWH Main campus).
In order to obtain a Harvard ID, postdocs must have a Harvard Medical School Appointment, such as instructor or research fellow. This is an unpaid academic title that might have been given in addition to the title of “Postdoctoral Research Fellow” at The Brigham. However, an appointment at the Harvard Medical School is not required, and not all researchers are given one.
Postdocs who do not know whether they have a Harvard Medical School appointment should ask their principal investigator or office manager.
For more information about obtaining a Harvard ID, click here.
MGB Shuttles
For the convenience of employees, patients, and visitors, MGB provides free shuttle services between its hospitals and some offices. This expandYou can find real-time tracking, schedules and routes at this link.
Parking
There is parking available throughout LMA and at satellite locations that are near public transportation. BWH’s Parking and Security staff can assist with parking lot availability. They can be reached at bwhparking@partners.org or by phone at (617) 732-5877. Parking rates are relatively low, and are payable through payroll deduction. Click below for the following information about parking:
- Map of parking facilities
- Parking rates and available garages and lots for BWH employees (Parking is also available at the Mission Park garage for employees working off-shifts and weekends.)
Ride-Sharing & Carpooling
CommuteWorks offers many resources and incentive programs to encourage LMA employees to try carpooling, and to reward greener commuting choices. Employees who register carpools with CommuteWorks are eligible for:
- $50 gas card for each of the first 3 months of participation
- $100 gas card after 9 months of participation
- Access to up to 5 day parking passes per month for $5 each
- Enrollment in the free Emergency Ride Home Program
Need help finding a carpool partner? NuRide lets employees search for matches based on what time they start their commute. For more information about the Carpool Incentive Program and NuRide click here.
CommuteFit
For the ultimate healthy and green way to commute, consider walking, running, or biking to work. There are plenty of bike racks around LMA, and the CommuteFit Program offers rewarding and fun incentives, such as the opportunity to earn $50 gift cards.
The Brigham Wayfinding App is an interactive map where users can plot a course between destinations on & around the main campus. This can help postdocs navigate to various offices and services like the Cashier’s Office, Parking & Security, or various events and conference rooms.
For International Postdocs
In addition to J-1 and H-1B visas, there are several other types of visas. It is the individual’s responsibility to maintain their visa status, and it is very important that they do so.
Below is a list of overview information immediately followed by more comprehensive details for each visa type. Any questions about visas can be directed to the MGB GPS.
You must file tax forms if you were physically present in the U.S. in any immigration status (except B-1 Visa or Visa Waiver) for any part of the year you were in the U.S. For example, if you were in the U.S. for any part of 2023, you would need to file taxes in the following year, 2024.
Filing tax forms does not mean that you will pay taxes, but that you are complying with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) laws to report whether you had any U.S. income.
“Nonresident” or “Resident Alien”
Tax residence (sometimes called fiscal residency, residence for tax purposes) is an important concept for all taxpayers living and working abroad. Your tax residency determines how you are taxed and which tax forms you need to submit.
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There is at least one tax form (IRS Form 8843) you and any of your dependent family members must file if you held any U.S. immigration status (except B-1 or Visa Waiver) in 2023
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The U.S. IRS classifies visa holders as either “nonresident “ or “resident” alien
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The Sprintax software and video will help you determine your tax residency status. If Sprintax determines you are a nonresident for tax purposes, you will be able to proceed and complete your tax forms using Sprintax
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If you are a resident for tax purposes, you cannot use Sprintax to file your tax forms, but you may use other tax services such as TurboTax or H&R Block to complete your tax forms. Fees may apply to file federal and state tax forms
GPS Banking and Taxes Resources Page
We strongly encourage you to visit the GPS page on Banking and Taxes for more information about paying taxes while on a visa, including resources to find an international tax expert to consult about your individual situation.
Acquiring a Social Security Number (SSN)
When you arrive in the US, you may not have a Social Security Number (SSN) yet, and it will take some time to acquire one.
DO NOT share your SSN in unsecured electronic communication (i.e. email) once you receive it.
Accessing Services Without SSN
Some banks require you to have a social security number in order to make an account. Bank of America is one exception that allows you to make an account without the SSN (although you may not be able to apply online).
Selecting health insurance through MGB Peoplesoft generally requires a SSN, but if you do not yet have one you can enroll manually by submitting a form that you should have received during onboarding. Contact the HR onboarding team if you do not have this form.
Applying for SSN
1. Obtain the necessary documents: Gather the required documents for your SSN application. Typically, you will need to provide the following:
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- Passport: A valid, unexpired passport that serves as your primary identification.
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- Immigration documents: Depending on your immigration status, you may need to provide additional documents such as your visa, Form I-94, or employment authorization.
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- Form SS-5: Complete and print the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Form SS-5 (https://www.ssa.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf ), Application for a Social Security Card. You can find this form on the SSA’s website (https://www.ssa.gov ) or pick up a physical copy from a local SSA office (https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp )
2. Verify the supporting documents: Ensure that your supporting documents are valid and meet the SSA’s requirements. You may need to provide certified translations if your documents are not in English.
3. Visit the Social Security office: Plan a visit to the selected SSA office during business hours. It’s a good idea to arrive early to avoid long wait times.
4. Submit your application: When you arrive at the SSA office, inform the staff that you’re applying for an SSN as a foreign national. They will guide you through the process and provide any additional forms, if necessary. Submit your completed Form SS-5 and supporting documents to the staff.
5. Attend an interview (if required): Depending on your specific circumstances, the SSA may request an interview to verify your identity and eligibility. If an interview is needed, cooperate with the SSA and provide any additional information or documentation they require.
6. Wait for your SSN card: The SSA will process your request after submitting your application. It may take a few weeks to receive your SSN card via mail. You can check the status of your application online or by contacting the SSA.
7. Keep your SSN secure: Once you receive your SSN card, please keep it safe and DO NOT unnecessarily SHARE your SSN; only provide it to authorized entities when required.
Remember, this guide provides a general overview of the process. Still, it’s essential to consult the SSA’s official website or contact their office for the most up-to-date and accurate information specific to your situation.
Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
The IRS issues ITINs to individuals who do not have, or are not eligible for an SSN. To apply for an ITIN, download Form W-7 and follow the instructions.
Healthcare & Childcare
All Brigham employees and their covered family members (depending upon their healthcare plan) can receive primary care through BWH, BWFH, or another MGB-affiliated practice. For more information about the employee health insurance options, please see AskMyHR.
Finding a Doctor
To explore primary care providers, please visit this document for assistance.
To learn more about medical benefits at the Brigham, please click here or AskMyHr.
Unfortunately, there are only limited resources available to BWH employees for childcare. For up-to-date information, please see here.
Human Resources and Contacts for Questions
Questions for Fellow Postdocs?
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at BWHPDA@partners.org to connect with current postdocs directly.
Questions about Onboarding?
If you have HR or onboarding related issues, you can make a request through AskMyHR or contact any of the HR representative who provided you onboarding information.
Questions about Resources at the Brigham?
If you have general questions about research resources at BWH, please contact the ResearchHelpline@bwh.harvard.edu.
If you have a question about something specific to your department, you can ask your department admin for help. If you don’t know who your department admin is, you can email the Research Helpline with your department and PI, and we can help you find out.
Need to Report a Concern to Human Resources?
We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that is free of discrimination, bias and harassment and where all individuals feel respected and safe. If you believe you’ve experienced harassment, discrimination, or other unacceptable workplace behavior, or witnessed them, we want to hear from you. You can submit a concern through Know the Line.
You can also visit Brigham-Specific Resources here.
Career Development
ORC Awards
Please click on the following links to learn more about ORC-specific awards available to the postdoc community.
- BWH PLC Travel Support for BWH Postdocs
- Postdoc Scholars Award for Excellence in Mentoring
- Microgrants
Early Career & Fellowship Funding Opportunities
The Early Career Funding AirTable displays a selection of current funding opportunities from foundations and other institutions that specifically mentions being relevant to career development for postdocs, trainees, and junior faculty.
Interested in networking with the wider Brigham research community? Join our LinkedIn Networking and Alumni group to start connecting!
The ORC is proud to support our postdocs’ careers by providing a one-time free printing of 500 business cards for postdocs at BWH. Please visit this webpage for more information on the ordering process.
Educational Opportunities
Harvard Catalyst offers numerous online and in-person courses, as well as training programs ranging from short programs that provide an overview of c/t research to multi-year, advanced programs for senior fellows and faculty members.
The course material is often free for Harvard affiliates, however, courses that offer certificates may require a fee, which is discounted. Some courses may require and application, while others will simply be open to registration. Be sure to visit the webpage for the course you are interested in to learn more information and find out if you are eligible.
People and Organization Development (P&OD) offers learning and development strategies and resources across Mass General Brigham. Such system-wide offerings include consultative services that support organizational effectiveness, the design and delivery of comprehensive development programs for all employees, talent development initiatives, team-building solutions, leadership development opportunities, and culture change. Please see the resources here.
Writing Resources
Grant Editing Service
Have your grant edited by Dr. Brenda Birmann, part-time grant editor with the ORC. Brenda provides individual feedback, assists with English language, grammar, and writing style, and ensures formatting and content is in line with NIH guidelines. Brenda does not provide scientific review, so we recommend getting feedback from your mentor(s) before submitting to have as complete a draft as possible. Click here to learn more about this service.
Grant and Funding Resources Page
The ORC has compiled a list of resources that could be useful for postdocs writing grant applications. This includes resources provided by the NIH and Harvard Catalyst.
Harvard Catalyst Writing Center
Harvard Catalyst’s Writing and Communication Center is a comprehensive collection of tools, trainings, and resources that empower clinical/translational research team members in any stage of their careers.
Check out our events calendar for any updates on future writing workshops!
ORC Abstract Writing Workshop
Join the ORC for a hands-on workshop on best practices, common pitfalls, tips, and tricks to writing an excellent abstract for a variety of purposes! All BWH researchers welcome.
Click here for the slides from the most recent workshop.
Grant Writing Course: The Art & Anatomy of Writing a Career Development (K Grant)
The Brigham Research Education Program and the Boston Children’s Hospital Institutional Centers for Clinical & Translational Research (ICCTR) invite you to participate in this course for novice grant writers.
This course is designed for faculty, fellows, and other novice grant writers who are applying for career development (K grant) funding. The course will provide an overview and resources for your grant submission.
Check out our events calendar for updates on the next time this course will be run for the Brigham community.
Grammarly
Free access to the English writing assistance software for all MGB users! Sign in with your MGB credentials.
BWH Postdoctoral Association (BWH PDA)
The BWH PDA is a team of postdocs who work with the BRI and ORC to enhance the training experience for all postdocs in the BWH community.
The BWH PDA established the Mentoring Circles Program to help postdocs get the most out of their training at Brigham & Women’s Hospital.
MCP is a program created by postdocs for postdocs. Two mentors (senior postdocs) meet 5-7 mentees (junior postdocs) on a monthly basis to give advice and advance their career.
If you are seeking mentorship or feel you would be a good mentor for others, please look out for MCP applications in August-September.
The Postdoc Leadership Council (PLC) and its committees are a great way for everyone in our community of BWH postdocs to get more involved and shape the future of the BWH PDA. Elections for the PLC officers and committee chairs are held annually, but any postdoc can join a committee at any time.
Learn more about the PLC here.
Postdoc Policy
The BWH Postdoc Policy provides guidelines and minimum expectations for all BWH Postdoctoral Fellows and their PIs, including guaranteed paid time off, annual salary increases and career conferences, and responsibilities for mentoring. Please contact us with questions about specific policies.
The postdoc policy was last revised in May 2022. Please visit this webpage to access the policy and its appendices.
