研究热点会是一个因素，但只是一个小的方面。
HHMI如是说：“By appointing scientists as Hughes investigators --- rather than awarding research grants --- HHMI is guided by the principle of "people, not projects." Since the early 1990s, investigators have been selected through rigorous national competitions. The Institute solicits applications from researchers at medical schools and other research institutions in the
United States, with the aim of identifying researchers who have the potential to make significant contributions to science. Once selected, HHMI investigators continue to be based at their home institutions, typically leading a research
group of 10-25 students, postdoctoral associates and technicians, but become Institute employees and are supported by field staff throughout the country.”