The Scientific Governance Council consists of six members and an alternate who are part of HWI's scientific staff and are elected by their peers to three-year terms. The council is involved in all major decisions that affect the future of the Institute. Their primary duties focus on scientific matters such as fostering new and existing research programs, recruiting and mentoring young scientists, and reviewing scientific projects and grant requests. In addition, they are responsible for the maintenance of the physical laboratories and serve as a sounding board and advisory council for the executive and support departments.

The Governance Council is also used as a mechanism to identify and groom future leaders while establishing a strong, committed leadership team