Title after 5 year Postdoctoral Training

8/19/08

History Regarding the Postdoctoral Appointments

In February 2004, the University implemented the policy of a 5 year limit on Postdoctoral Training. Postdoctoral appointments are temporary with fixed ending dates. The total duration of an individual’s postdoctoral service should not exceed a total of five (5) years, including time spent at other institutions. It is recommended that the initial postdoctoral appointment be within three (3) years of the Ph.D. degree or within six (6) years of the M.D. degree.

In special cases, upon written requests of the appointee and the mentor, an exception to the five year rule may be granted by the Postdoctoral Policy Review Committee primarily for reasons of health or family responsibilities.

Postdoctoral appointments are generally contingent on available funding. If a faculty mentor must terminate a postdoctoral appointment prior to the appointment end date due to lack of funding, the postdoctoral appointee will be given a minimum of 30 days written notice prior to such termination.

Once the five (5) year limit has been reached the appointee should either leave the University or receive a faculty or staff position.

Procedure for After the Five (5) Year Window

• Extension: If additional Postdoctoral training (greater than the 5 year limit) is needed a letter should be submitted to the Postdoctoral Policy Review Committee. This letter should address in great detail the reasons the extension is needed and the length of the extension.

• Appoint as a Staff Scientist. As a Staff Scientist the appointee will not be permitted to submit research grants. The job description states that a Staff Scientist position requires a Masters degree with 5 years experience in a research lab.

• Appoint as a Senior Scientist. As a Senior Scientist the appointee will not be permitted to submit research grants. The job description states that a Senior Scientist position requires a PhD or MD and at least 3 years of Postdoctoral Experience.