Appointment Types, Criteria, and Notice

A Postdoctoral Researcher is an individual who has received a doctoral degree (or equivalent) and is engaged in a temporary and defined period of mentored advanced training to enhance the professional and research independence needed to pursue his or her chosen career path.

At the University of Chicago, the postdoctoral experience emphasizes scholarship and continued research training. The Postdoctoral Researcher conducts research under the general oversight of a faculty, or another mentor, in preparation for a career in academe, industry, government, or the nonprofit sector. In many disciplines, postdoctoral work provides essential training for individuals pursuing academic careers and may include opportunities to enhance teaching and other professional skills.

Postdoctoral Researchers contribute to the academic community by enhancing the research and education programs of the University. The University strives to provide a stimulating, positive, and constructive experience for the Postdoctoral Researcher by emphasizing the mutual commitment and responsibility of the institution, the faculty, other researchers, and the Postdoctoral Researcher.

This policy defines and sets forth terms and conditions relating to the appointment of Postdoctoral Researchers. It applies to both

1. Postdoctoral Scholars (PDS), who are employees of the University, and
2. Postdoctoral Fellows (PDF), who are paid stipends by extramural agencies either directly or through the University.

Postdoctoral Fellows, however paid, are not employees of the University.