master phd postdoc

/images/cornell/logo35pt_cornell_white.svg" alt="master phd postdoc"> Cornell University --> Graduate School

Find a postdoc position.

A postdoc is a person who has received a doctoral degree and is pursuing additional research, training, or teaching to have better skills to pursue a career in academia, research, or other fields. Postdocs work closely with a faculty mentor. Postdocs play a crucial role in the university; they supplement the research expertise of faculty by sharing new techniques, collaborating with other institutions, and helping to manage the daily operations of a laboratory or research site. They also contribute teaching and advising support to undergraduate and graduate students.

Consider your long-term goals and why you want to do a postdoc:

• Do you want to stay in academia or are you looking at industry?
• Do you want to focus on teaching, research, or a combination of both?
• Are you getting a postdoc to learn new skills?
• Are you getting a postdoc to publish?
• Are you getting a postdoc to develop better teaching skills?
• Are you getting a postdoc to further develop your existing skills?

Prepare for the job search:

• Develop your CV. You need a strong CV to get a position, so get help writing it from a career counselor in your college or in Career Services in Barnes Hall. This is a very important document, which you will keep updating for the rest of your career.
• Do mock interviews. Work on your interviewing skills and develop your job talk.
• Ask your advisor and other faculty members to be your references. Letters of recommendation are a key part of the application process. You need strong references who know you well. Give each reference an updated copy of your CV.
• Network. Let everyone know that you are looking for a postdoc.

For details, go to Resumes and CVs .

Talk with your advisor and others to identify universities/labs:

Once you know what you hope to accomplish during a postdoc and have made a list of prospective labs, talk to your advisor and other faculty members to shorten this list. Also, talk with postdocs in your department to get their opinions.

Investigate the labs/PIs and university:

Check out the lab’s most recent publications and the lab’s website. Find out the record of past postdocs/grad students in the lab. Talk with current and former postdocs/grad students about their experiences there, as well as where they are now. Choosing the right PI is vital to your future career. Consider:

• Is the PI well connected?
• Does the PI have tenure?
• Does the PI have a solid record in getting grants?
• Does the PI have a solid record publishing?

Check the university salary and benefit package for postdocs; call the Postdoc Office if they have one. Find out if they offer:

• health benefits for postdocs and their families
• retirement benefit
• career counseling
• housing (can be essential in a large city)

Start applying:

Send out your CV and cover letter to the labs you are interested in. If you do not get a reply within a month, follow up with an email. Conferences are a great place to meet PIs and network; so before the conference, contact the PI/labs to schedule an informational meeting.

• Before an interview, prepare and practice your presentation.
• Make your presentation distinctive, interesting, and understandable.
• Research the universities where you will be interviewing so you can ask informed questions.
• During the interview, ask questions to make sure this is the right position for you.
• Talk to other postdocs and grad students in the lab.
• Send thank you notes after each interview.

For details, go to Interviews .

Making the decision:

By now you should have a good idea of each lab you applied to, and which is the best place for your research. Once you make a decision you need to stay with it, so think carefully before accepting an offer.

For details, go to  Evaluate Offers .

For more information, contact Director of Postdoctoral Studies Christine Holmes ( [email protected] ).

Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies

Medical School

• Application and Admission
• Research Areas and Disciplines
• Recruitment and Retention
• Tuition, Funding and Financial Support
• International Applicants
• Diversity and Inclusion
• Why Choose Us?
• Timeline Progress to Degree
• UR Welcome Program
• P2P-Peer Mentoring Program
• Awards, Fundings and Fellowship Opportunities
• Health and Wellness
• Student Groups
• Application Network
• International Postdoc Support
• T32 Training Programs
• Postdoctoral Council
• Workshops and Seminars
• Life Sciences Summer Undergraduate Research Program (LSSURP)
• Responsible Conduct in Research
• Internship Program
• Career Development Seminars
• Individual Development Plan
• Alumni Connect

The Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies serves as a resource for prospective and current graduate students and postdoctoral scholars training in health-relevant and biomedical sciences in the Medical School.

The University of Minnesota Medical School has 11 graduate programs in a variety disciplines that include neuroscience, cancer biology, molecular genetics, immunology, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology and infectious diseases, rehabilitation sciences, and stem cell biology, among other cross- and interdisciplinary sciences. With 500+ potential faculty mentors, our graduate programs currently have a combined number of 440+ graduate students engaged in the mentored-research training.

The University of Minnesota Medical Scientist Training Program is one of 50 MD/PhD programs funded by the National Institutes of Health and serves to combine rigorous scientific training with world-class medical education to cultivate the complete physician-scientist. The mission of the University's MSTP program is to train and support a diverse community of dedicated students to become physician scientists who are able to integrate their scientific, clinical, and leadership skills to promote human health.

Across several Centers, Institutes, Programs and Departments within the Medical School at the University of Minnesota, there is a wide-range of opportunities for postdoctoral scholars to continue their training in biomedical research.  Postdoctoral studies provide the forum and research environment to further the path towards independency for recent PhD graduates. 

A Message from Dean Jakub Tolar, MD, PhD

Welcome to the University of Minnesota Medical School, a world-class institution with a long history of continued exploration of the basic mechanistic biological elements, discovery of unique translational science aspects and development of clinical-relevant therapeutics and technologies that continually change the landscape in health-relevant and biomedical research. We engage and train Master's and PhD students in rigorous and impactful research, foster further development of independency through continued mentored postdoctoral training, and create a rich environment for MD/PhD students to develop into leading physician scientists. 

Become a postdoc

Thank you for your interest in The University of Waterloo, one of Canada's premier research-intensive universities. Our international reputation for excellence and innovation attracts some of the most innovative and creative researchers in the world, including approximately 400 postdocs. 

1. Find a postdoc position

Each postdoctoral fellow must be affiliated with a University of Waterloo faculty member whose responsibility it is to recruit, select and supervise postdoctoral fellows. Postdoctoral fellows are considered employees at University of Waterloo.

There is no central recruitment or application process, with the exception of a few internally run funding competitions listed on our postdoc funding webpage . 

At University of Waterloo, the majority of postdoctoral fellowship opportunities may be found by reaching out to professors who may be hiring postdocs with their own research funds, or by postdocs bringing their own funding (via an  external award or fellowship ) to the University and finding a supervisor who is interested in supervising their work.

If you are interested in finding a postdoctoral position where you are paid by a supervisor’s grant, explore faculty/department websites , and academic organization websites in your field. Most postings are not posted publicly, however, so Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA) recommends reaching out to professors whose research interests align with your own to ask if they are looking to hire a postdoc. You may directly contact a faculty member with related research interests even if there are no current postings in that area.

2. Review additional steps for international postdocs

International postdoctoral fellows must have an Immigration, Refugees & Citizenship Canada (IRCC) work permit prior to coming to Waterloo to assume a postdoctoral fellowship. Processing times can be slow. If you are an international postdoc, begin exploring the procedures  you will need to follow to obtain approval to work in Canada. Help can also be provided by University of Waterloo's  Visa and Immigration Support Services  (Legal and Immigration Services).

3. Come to an agreement in principle with your supervisor

Items for discussion: 

• Start/end dates and possibilities for contract extensions
• Compensation
• Benefits, including how the cost of extended health care benefits (if applicable) will be paid
• Time off (holidays, sick days)
• Professional development
• Teaching opportunities
• Expectations re: publications, working hours, etc.

4. Review the Postdoctoral Guidelines

Review the  Postdoc guidelines  to understand what you can expect in the appointment process. Review the main elements of an appointment letter so you know what to expect.

5. Review your appointment letter carefully before signing

Appointment letters are contractual agreements. Be sure you understand and/or negotiate aspects of the letter that you are unfamiliar or unhappy with prior to signing. If you are an international postdoc, the terms and/or conditions in the appointment letter cannot be changed after immigration has been approved. For example, if the terms of your postdoc do not outline teaching responsibilities, you cannot take up a teaching position on this work permit. Additionally, a contract extension or reappointment will require an updated work permit. 

If you have concerns, contact  Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs  or  Human Resources .

Figure out how much you will get paid after taxes and benefit costs (if applicable) are deducted by using the net pay/benefit cost eximator found on the Human Resources payroll webpage .  

Note that all individuals working in Canada, including non-Canadian citizens (and international postdocs from date of arrival), are required to pay provincial and federal taxes on all income earned in Canada. Postdoctoral Fellows appointed at the University of Waterloo who receive income from the University will have Income Tax, Canada Pension and Employment Insurance deducted monthly. Other applicable deductions are based on the information submitted to the Human Resources Department from a TD1 Tax Credit Form. Annually, every person earning an income in Canada submits a Canada Customs & Revenue tax return.

6. Sign the appointment letter

When you are comfortable with your appointment letter, sign it and sign the non-faculty appointment form. 

If you are an international postdoc, you can begin application for your work permit once you receive the proof of submission for the Offer of Employment/LMIA exemption (IMM5802 submission e-receipt). If this is a reappointment or contract extension, new documentation to support your work permit application will be required.

7. Get set up at University of Waterloo

Review the new postdoc checklist  at University of Waterloo. 

Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA)

Needles Hall, second floor, room 2201

Graduate Studies Academic Calendar

Website feedback

• Contact Waterloo
• Maps & Directions
• Accessibility

The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations .

• DACA/Undocumented
• First Generation, Low Income
• International Students
• Students of Color
• Students with disabilities
• Undergraduate Students
• Master’s Students
• PhD Students
• Faculty/Staff
• Family/Supporters
• Career Fairs
• Post Jobs, Internships, Fellowships
• Build your Brand at MIT
• Recruiting Guidelines and Resources
• Connect with Us
• Career Advising
• Distinguished Fellowships
• Employer Relations
• Graduate Student Professional Development
• Prehealth Advising
• Student Leadership Opportunities
• Academia & Education
• Architecture, Planning, & Design
• Arts, Communications, & Media
• Business, Finance, & Fintech
• Computing & Computer Technology
• Data Science
• Energy, Environment, & Sustainability
• Life Sciences, Biotech, & Pharma
• Manufacturing & Transportation
• Health & Medical Professions
• Social Impact, Policy, & Law
• Getting Started & Handshake 101
• Exploring careers
• Networking & Informational Interviews
• Connecting with employers
• Resumes, cover letters, portfolios, & CVs
• Finding a Job or Internship
• Post-Graduate and Summer Outcomes
• Professional Development Competencies
• Preparing for Graduate & Professional Schools
• Preparing for Medical / Health Profession Schools
• Interviewing
• New jobs & career transitions
• Career Prep and Development Programs
• Employer Events
• Outside Events for Career and Professional Development
• Events Calendar
• Career Services Workshop Requests
• Early Career Advisory Board
• Peer Career Advisors
• Student Staff
• Mission, Vision, Values and Diversity Commitments
• News and Reports

Finding a Good Postdoc: Tips & Resources

• Share This: Share Finding a Good Postdoc: Tips & Resources on Facebook Share Finding a Good Postdoc: Tips & Resources on LinkedIn Share Finding a Good Postdoc: Tips & Resources on X

WHAT IS A POSTDOCTORAL ASSIGNMENT (POSTDOC):

• An opportunity to develop additional skills and experience while under the supervision of an experienced researcher
• It doesn’t need to be in the same field as PhD, but will be longer if requires becoming proficient in new field

PREPARING FOR A POSTDOC WHILE STILL IN GRADUATE SCHOOL:

• Present your work through departmental seminars and professional association meetings
• Supervise research of undergraduate students and technicians
• Participate in drafting research grant proposals
• Join professional associations and apply for honor societies in your field

SEARCHING FOR A POSTDOC:

• Network! Go to scientific meetings, talk with PIs whose research you like, make contacts
• Present at and attend conferences and meetings, read professional association websites and newsletters
• Ask advisors and mentors for ideas, some may be willing to advocate for you
• Email advisors or PIs early to express interest in postions

SELECTING A POSTDOC THAT EXCITES YOU:

Choice of a postdoc mentor: consider special skills, rank, reputation, previous trainees, and funding status.

• Established New Principal Investigator (PI): Established PI has rank and influence, while new PI is likely to spend a lot of time in lab and can give more direct training
• Training Record: Are past trainees in high-level positions? Are current trainees getting quality training?
• Funding: Does PI have funding to pay postdoc for 3-5 years? Does PI have good extramural funding record?
• Management Style: Does the PI give postdocs freedom to work independently? What kind of schedule are postdocs expected to follow? Is the lab collaborative or competitive? Does PI supply up-to-date equipment?

Salary and Cost of Living

• Many Postdocs in academia have roughly same salary nationwide due to federal funding guidelines
• Postdocs in industry generally pay more, but may not be best choice for those pursuing academic careers because of potential limits on publishing and applying for funding

Select a Laboratory that Suits Your Work and Lifestyle

• If at all possible, visit the lab before making a decision; consider the reputation of the institution
• Talk to other graduate students and postdocs in lab to determine work style
• Think about how you like to work—as part of a team, individually, with what level of supervision?
• Does lab location and surrounding environment satisfy your non-work interests?
• Do people in lab work 9am – 5pm, only when experiments need to be done, or all of the time?
• Do you prefer a lab with a lot of money and space or are tight spaces and budgets okay?
• Do you want a lab that acts like a “family” and hangs out all the time or sticks to business?
• How much attention do you want from mentor? More people means less time with mentor

Select a Project with Outcomes that Match Your Career Goals

• Determine why you want to do a postdoc and what you want to do/where you want to be after completion
• Avoid strictly continuing work you did in graduate school; a postdoc is an opportunity to diversify your expertise
• Think carefully before extending your graduate work into a postdoc in same It is unlikely to maximize your gain of broader experience, but that can be offset by rapid and important publications
• Does lab you are entering have a track record producing high-quality publications?
• Understand the expectations around publication records in your field, and set goals for yourself
• Have an understanding with your mentor on your likelihood of first authorship before you start projects
• Find out about source and duration of funding before accepting position
• Good mentors will understand that your horizon is independence—your own future lab, group leader,
• Strive to get your own money—plan ahead for this, as most funds come from joint application with mentor

MAXIMIZING YOUR POSTDOC EXPERIENCE:

Plan for your future.

• Have at least two projects underway. Include one that is guaranteed to generate good (if not exciting) results
• Network and meet other postdocs on campus, serve on campus committees; attend and present at seminars, regional, and national scientific meetings

LIST OF RESOURCES:

Mit postdoc resources.

• MIT Postdoctoral Information
• Database on Funding for Research and Travel
• MIT Postdoc Association

Finding and Securing Postdoctoral Positions

• Finding Postdoctoral Positions

General Postdoc Resources and Opportunities

• National Postdoctoral Association
• Science Careers
• Survival Guide for International Postdoc Students in the US
• Postdoctoral Training in the NIH Intramural Research Program
• Postdoc Jobs

Maximizing the Postdoctoral Experience

• Individual Development Plan for Postdoctoral Fellows
• Developing your Core Competencies as a Postdoc
• AAMC Compact Between Postdoctoral Appointees and Their Mentors
• Making the Right Moves: A Practical Guide to Scientific Management for Postdocs and New Faculty
• The Postdoctoral Experience Revisited

Funding Sources

(awardee institutions, government agencies: NIH, NSF, NASA, EPA, USDA; & private organizations)

• Direct or Indirect Funding Sources
• Scientific Grants & Funding
• Tips on Applying for Burroughs Wellcome Funding (Biomedical Sciences)
• Grant Writing from UCSF

• POSTDOC SEARCH
• MY SHORTLIST
• ADVERTISE WITH US

PostDoc Search

About findapostdoc.

• PostDoc Advice
• What is a PostDoc?

What is a PostDoc? – An Introduction

A postdoctoral fellowship, or ‘PostDoc’ position, is fixed-term research post for PhD graduates. This is normally a bridge between completing a PhD and pursuing a career in academia, but you can also do a PostDoc to gain further skills and training for other careers.

This page explains how PostDocs work, what they offer and how to apply.

On this page

What is a postdoc position.

PostDocs are generally temporary positions taken up by a PhD graduate to further their academic knowledge and acquire additional research training.

The research you carry out will usually be related to the work done during a PhD (as this is now your area of expertise!) but shouldn’t be on the exact same subject / problem as your doctoral research.

There are some exceptions to this however, for example when a PhD student is asked to do further studies that directly follow on from their PhD project, but at a postdoctoral level. This type of PostDoc is known as a transition PostDoc.

You can read about the different types of PostDoc in our guide.

What does a PostDoc do?

A PostDoc works on a specific research project outlined for their fellowship. In some ways this is similar to a shorter PhD, but the work you do may be more advanced and may not have a specific final outcome (such as a thesis). Instead you may help with one stage of an ongoing research project.

PostDocs are most common in STEM subjects, particularly Science and Engineering . You will be under the supervision of a principal investigator (PI) or mentor, assisting them with a common research interest. As a more confident and experienced researcher you have the freedom to delve into new things, techniques and equipment. This independence allows you take on projects of your own and explore new ideas that you think will benefit your field. In some ways this kind of PostDoc is a bit like being hired as an additional expert to help the PI and their team.

PostDocs are also available for Arts and Humanities or Social Sciences PhD graduates. These projects may be slightly more independent but will still be connected with existing academic work within a university department.

Unlike a PhD, a postdoctoral contract does not end with a thesis defence. Instead, your work is recognised through results and publications or, in the case of industrial research and development, improvement and / or launch of an effective product.

Example PostDoc projects

PostDocs can be just as varied as PhDs, but examples of the sort of thing you might do as a postdoctoral fellow include:

• Assisting a digitisation project - helping convert print and manuscript sources into a form that can be used by other Arts and Humanities students and researchers, perhaps creating a published resource or service
• Designing and / or carrying out large-scale qualitative research projects - ensuring data collected for Social Science research is accurate, ethically-compliant and useful
• Contributing to ongoing laboratory studies - using the expert technical and methodological skills gained through a PhD to provide key input and assistance for Science and Engineering research groups
• Carrying out public engagement work - helping researchers in all disciplines communicate their findings to the general public through media events, publications and collaborations with non-academic organisations

For other (real life) examples, browse the current PostDoc opportunities on our site.

Responsibilities outside of research

A PostDoc position isn’t all about the research. There are many other roles involved in a fellowship, using the skills and experience you have gained on your PhD. These include teaching, writing grants and funding proposals, presenting your findings to others and leading projects and other team members.

All of these are key skills for early-career academics and a PostDoc is an excellent way to gain them.

Teaching can be an essential requirement to progress further in your career and is also a part of postdoctoral work. This can involve lecturing, supervising undergraduate and Masters or assisting with the training of new PhD students. Gaining experience in applying for funding is also a key part of becoming a researcher and is another part of the PostDoc experience.

Doing a PostDoc can also prepare you for other careers as you will have more experience in managing ongoing research projects or achieving targeted research outcomes (in addition to your experience of completing a full PhD research project).

How long is a PostDoc?

A postdoctoral contract is usually about two or three years long, but this can depend on a number of things, such as the country of research, the area of research, the PI and the funding available. In general, a PostDoc is shorter than a PhD.

PhD graduates sometimes complete two or three PostDocs before applying for faculty positions or other, more permanent appointments outside of academia. On the other hand, a PostDoc is not always necessary for an academic job.

Most PostDocs take place soon after a PhD and are designed to fit the time in which doctoral graduates are still preparing to become early-career academics. University jobs designed for early-career academics will usually expect you to have earned your PhD in the last two-three years: this is the time in which you may have also completed a PostDoc.

PostDoc salary and funding

The average postdoctoral research salary in the UK is £31,990 and $48,825 in the United States*. You can see our guide to PostDocs in different countries to see the differences in salaries across the world.

How much you are paid on a PostDoc may depend on the type of position you apply for.

*From payscale.com

Postdoctoral employees

A PostDoc working at an industrial company or corporate body is paid like any other member of staff. You will be employed on a fixed-term basis with a regular salary and applicable employee benefits / other entitlements.

Postdoctoral fellowships

Fellowships are set grants or scholarships usually awarded to PostDocs at universities. You may be assigned to a pre-defined project, but could also have the freedom to pursue a specific research direction defined in your application.

This postdoctoral fellowship usually covers salary, relocation costs, travel costs and research expenses and is awarded to an individual based on merit.

Funding for fellowships may be provided by Research Councils, charities and trusts – similar to PhD studentships. There are different types of fellowships available, such as mobility schemes and travel fellowships that provide support for research to be done elsewhere in the world.

Organisations such as UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) often offer postdoctoral fellowships for European citizens. Other PostDoc funding bodies include the Leverhulme trust and Marie Curie fellowships, or the Max Weber programme which is an international PostDoc programme.

This article is the property of FindAPostDoc.com and may not be reproduced without permission.

Click here to search our database of PostDoc opportunities

FindAPostDoc. Copyright 2005-2024 All rights reserved.

We use cookies to create a better experience for you

To ensure all features on our website work properly, your computer, tablet or mobile needs to accept cookies. Our cookies don’t store your personal information, but provide us with anonymous information about use of the website and help us recognise you so we can offer you services more relevant to you. For more information please read our privacy policy

Search this site

Division of graduate studies menu, division of graduate studies, postdoctoral scholars.

A postdoctoral scholar is recognized as an individual who holds a doctoral degree or equivalent terminal degree who is engaged in a temporary and defined period of formally mentored research or scholarly training for the purpose of acquiring the professional skills needed to pursue a career path of their choosing.

Postdoctoral Appointment Guidelines

Career Planning and Self-Assessment

Postdoctoral life is a continuum of one’s career and is often an opportunity to broaden horizons and explore different regions of the world. Living in Eugene provides an array of opportunities for research and rest.

The University of Oregon Postdoc Association is full of resources for new postdocs who are continuing their careers in Eugene. Their goal as an organization is to assist University of Oregon postdocs by providing resources for:

• Career development
• Work-life integration
• Postdoctoral researchers in transition
• International postdoctoral researchers

International Student and Scholar Services has resources for international postdoc students. You’ll find opportunities for global engagement, resources around campus, and tools to promote equitable engagement.

National Postdoctoral Association provides a variety of career planning resources for postdoc students. These include self-assessment tools, career exploration, and more. 

Postdocs can search for awards from among 625 scholarships, grants, fellowships, and postdoctoral awards through GRAPES , sponsored by UCLA.

External fellowships and awards are administered by governmental agencies, private foundations, and corporations. Graduate students and postdoctoral scholars are encouraged to explore further in order to expand their areas of interest and research.

Assessing Skills and Interests

ImaginePhD is an online career exploration and planning tool for PhD students and postdoctoral scholars in the humanities and social sciences. It’s a free program for all users and provides knowledge on doctoral education and the of opportunities.

Imagine PhD

Individual Development Plans

An individual development plan (IDP) is a resource generated by graduate students and post docs to help guide their career development. When creating your IDP, take into account your interests and strengths, while considering what skills and qualifications are necessary for your chosen career.

An IDP provides a shared point of reference for conversations with your UO advisor (and other mentors) about how to achieve your goals and/or evolve them .

IDP Resources

Postdoctoral Fellows

New postdoc orientation.

• Postdoc and Admin Resources

Employment and Benefits

• Maternity and Paternal Leaves
• Campus Partners

From exploring various academic and industry options to enhancing your marketability with valuable skills in communication, ethics and teaching, we offer a heavy focus on essential career and professional development while you are here.

Postdoctoral fellows enrich the robust research enterprise at the University of Michigan Medical School. We place a high value on your deep expertise and the contributions you will make while you train with us.

The Office of Postdoctoral Studies serves postdoctoral fellows within the Medical School. Our focus is to connect you with the abundant resources at your disposal to become a successful, independent research professional.  We also coordinate with the U-M Postdoctoral Association to serve as a voice for postdoctoral fellows on campus as well as in university and nation-wide policy discussions.

If you are a prospective postdoctoral fellow, find more information here .

Please register to attend a monthly orientation session designed for newly arrived postdocs. 

At orientation, you will gain valuable information specific to postdoctoral fellows including learning objectives, benefits and payroll, how to get the training you need, how to navigate Ann Arbor, and different ways to get involved in the postdoc community. The U-M Postdoctoral Association also gives a short presentation on how they can help you get the most out of your time here at Michigan.

Prior to Orientation, please review the Postdoc Handbook.

Postdoc Resources

Admin resources, navigating your training.

Individual Development Plan

Medical School Office of Research

Avoiding Lab Misconduct E-learning Module

U-M Postdoc Handbook

UMMS Postdoctoral Compact details expectations for mentors and appointees. 

U-M Standard Practice Guide

Career Development

Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies Career & Professional Development has events, resources, and one-on-one advising to assist postdocs with their career navigation and development.

National Postdoctoral Association

Minority Postdoc

Versatile Ph.D. is a resource dedicated to helping you identify and prepare for possible non-academic careers. U-M is subscribed.

Mentoring Plans for Postdoctoral Scholars from the National Postdoctoral Association.

Making the Right Moves: A Practical Guide to Scientific Management for Postdocs and New Faculty

Pathways to Science for Postdocs to search positions, sign up for information on funding and programs, and join webinars.

Counseling and Support

Office of Counseling and Workplace Resilience  (formerly EAP) is a confidential, no cost service for UMHS faculty, staff, and their families. They offer a wide range of services to assist with health, relationships, work, and more.

Faculty and Staff Counseling and Consultation Office (FASCO) is a University of Michigan program that offers a number of services designed to help staff, faculty, and their immediate family members with personal difficulties encountered at both work and home.

Dispute Resolution

Dispute Resolution Policy

Postdoctoral Ombuds for Dispute Resolution is a confidential, impartial, informal, and independent resource for dispute management that servies postdoctoral fellows at the University of Michigan. Contact Darlene Ray-Johnson at [email protected]  or 734-936-1647.

U-M Medical School Dispute Resolution Officer oversees the mediation of disputes or disagreements regarding equity and fair treatment that may have an impact on evaluation or research activities for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows at the Medical School. The officer is impartial and conversations are confidential. Contact Mary O’Riordan, Associate Dean, Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies at [email protected]  or 734-763-3531.

The University of Michigan extends benefits to all postdoctoral research fellows. These benefits may include: paid or unpaid periods of excused absence, adherence to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), access to on-site child care, child care information resources, and access to dependent coverage for health insurance.

Academic Human Resources offers the most comprehensive overview of postdoctoral benefits . See also the University of Michigan Benefits Office and Tax Information .

University Policies (SPGs) set expectations for individual and organizational behavior for employeers and departments, and apply to the entire institution. Take time to discover what policies are relevant to your role by reviewing the Postdoctoral Research Fellow Standard Practice Guide .

Find information on Postdoc Maternity and Paternal Leaves here.

Our campus postdoctoral partners include:

Rackham Graduate School   

For all um postdoctoral fellows.

International Center  

For international postdoctoral fellows.

represents the interests of postdoctoral fellows

Please send general inquiries to [email protected]

Michele Swanson, PhD

Director of Postdoctoral Studies

Graduate School

• Request Information

Prospective Postdocs

What is a postdoctoral scholar.

A postdoctoral scholar at the University of Minnesota is an individual who has received a doctoral degree (or equivalent) and is in a temporary and defined period of mentored advanced training to enhance their professional  and research skills.

What Types of Postdoctoral Opportunities Are Available?

At the University of Minnesota, there are two types of postdoctoral scholar appointments:  

Postdoctoral Fellow 

Postdoctoral fellow appointments are for persons receiving a fellowship or training award granting a stipend and allowing for advanced study or research . The University of Minnesota offers postdoctoral training programs in a variety of academic fields including biological sciences, health sciences, food, agricultural and natural resource sciences, and higher education (see list of opportunities)

Postdoctoral Associate

Postdoctoral associates are academic employees who conduct research, teach, or provide service that enhances career skills or allows for opportunities to learn new research or teaching techniques . For information about postdoctoral associate opportunities at the University of Minnesota, please check with collegiate units or Human Resources.

What to Consider in Selecting a Postdoctoral Training Program

A prospective postdocs guide to choosing a postdoc.

Postdoctoral Handbook

The  Postdoctoral Handbook  is a guide for incoming and existing Postdocs for navigating their time at the University of Minnesota.

President’s Postdoctoral Fellowship 

The University of Minnesota has joined the University of California Partnership for Faculty Diversity to invite outstanding scholars interested in faculty and research careers.

The University of Minnesota is pleased to offer postdoctoral fellowship opportunities in disciplines represented at the university, coupled with faculty mentoring, professional development, and academic networking opportunities. For more information, click here .

Postdoctoral Training Programs at the University of Minnesota

Opportunities.

• Cancer Related Health Disparities Training Program - NCI - Michele Allen
• Technology Commercialization Fellowship -  Leza Besemann
• Infectious Disease Training in Clinical Investigation - NIAID - David Boulware  
• Integrative Training Program in Neuroimaging - NIBIB - Wei Chen  
• Developmental Psychopathology - NIMH - Dante Cicchetti
• Musculoskeletal Training Grant - NIAMS - Denis Clohisy  
• Regional Postdoctoral Training Grant in Eating Disorders Research - NIMH - Scott Crow  
• Training the Next Generation of Chemical Biologists - NIGMS - Mark Distefano  
• Training Program in Cardiac Innovation - NHLBI - Samuel Dudley  
• Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology & Prevention - NHLBI - Ryan Demmer &  Jim Pankow
• CTSI T32 Program - NIH -  Jayne Fulkerson
• Immunology Training Program - NIAID - Kristin Hogquist  
• Training in Lung Science - NHLBI - David Ingbar  
• Minnesota Obesity Prevention Training (MnOPT) - NIDDK - Catherine Kotz  
• Comorbidity: Substance Use Disorders and Other Psychiatric Conditions - NIDA - Matt Kushner  
• Cancer Biology Training Grant - NCI - Carol Lange  
• Molecular, Genetic, and Cellular Targets of Cancer Training Program — NCI — Carol Lange
• Minnesota Training Program in Virology - NIAID - Louis Mansky  
• Comparative Medicine and Pathology Training - OD - Molly McCue  
• Training Program in Translational Vision Sciences - NEI - Linda McLoon  
• Neuroscience Training in Drug Abuse Research - NIDA - Paul Mermelstein  
• Training in PharmacoNeuroImmune Substance Abuse Research - NIDA - Thomas Molitor  
• Pre-Faculty Research Training in Pediatric Endocrinology - NIDDK - Antoinette Moran  
• Training in Biostatistics for Heart; Lung and Blood Disease Research - NHLBI - Jim Neaton  
• Healthy Weight Promotion in Youth and Families from Diverse Communities: Applied Epidemiology Training - NHLBI - Dianne Neumark-Sztainer
• Research on Eating and Activity for Community Health (REACH) — NHLBI — Dianne Neumark-Sztainer
• Biostatistics in Genetics and Genomics Training Program - NIGMS - Wei Pan  
• Stem Cell Biology Training Program - NIGMS - Rita Perlingeiro  
• Using Computation to Achieve Breakthroughs in Neuroscience - NIMH - David Redish  
• Training for Future Biotechnology Development - NIGMS - Claudia Schmidt-Dannert  
• Training Grant in Diabetes; Endocrinology and Metabolism - NIDDK - Elizabeth Seaquist  
• Medical Scientist Training Program - NIGMS - Yoji Shimizu  
• Translational Pediatric Cancer Epidemiology Research Training Grant - NCI - Logan Spector  
• Minnesota Muscle Training Program - NIAMS - David Thomas  
• Multidisciplinary training in cardiovascular engineering - NHLBI - Robert Tranquillo  
• Hematology Research Training Program - NHLBI - Gregory Vercellotti  
• Interdisciplinary Population Health Science Training: Linking Multilevel Forces Across Time - NICHD - John Warren  
• Training the Next Generation of Surgeon-Scientists in Pancreatology - NIDDK -  Yamamoto Masato 

UMN Positions

UMN Jobs Page with Current Openings

Featured UMN Postdoc Training Opportunities

Additional Resources

Back to Postdoc Toolkit

UMN Postdoctoral Association

Benefits for Postdoctoral Associates (PDF)

Benefits/Policy for Postdoctoral Fellows (PDF)

Paid and Unpaid Leaves for Postdoctoral Associate

• About the Grad School
• Staff Directory
• Office Locations
• Our Campuses
• Twin Cities
• Mission & Values
• Strategic Plan
• Policies & Governance
• Graduate School Advisory Board
• Academic Freedom & Responsibility
• Academic & Career Support
• GEAR 1 Resource Hub
• GEAR+ Resource Hub
• Ask an Expert
• Graduate School Essentials
• Transferable Skills Checklist
• Grad InterCom
• First Gen Connect
• Advising & Mentoring
• Individual Development Plan (IDP)
• Three-Minute Thesis
• Application Instructions
• Application Fees
• Big 10 Academic Alliance Fee Waiver Program
• Application Status
• Official Transcripts & Credentials
• Unofficial Transcripts & Credentials
• Recommendation Letters
• International Student Resources
• Admissions Guide
• Change or Add a Degree Objective
• Readmission
• Explore Grad Programs
• Preparing for Graduate School
• Program Statistics
• Recruiting Calendar
• Funding Opportunities
• Prospective & Incoming Students
• Diversity of Views & Experience Fellowship (DOVE)
• National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship
• Current Students
• Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship Program
• Distinguished Master's Thesis Competition
• Diversity Predoctoral Teaching Fellowships
• Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship
• Excellence in Teaching Award
• Fulbright U.S. Student Program
• Graduate SEED Awards
• Harold Leonard Memorial Fellowship in Film Study
• Interdisciplinary Doctoral Fellowship
• Judd Travel Grants
• Louise T. Dosdall Endowed Fellowship
• Mistletoe Fellowship
• Research Travel Grants
• Smithsonian Institute Fellowship
• Torske Klubben Fellowship
• Program Requests & Nominations
• Bridging Funds Program
• Best Dissertation Program
• Co-Sponsorship Grants Program
• Google Ph.D. Fellowship
• National Science Foundation Research Traineeship
• National Science Foundation Innovations in Graduate Education Program
• Training Grant Matching Funds
• Fellowship Dates & Deadlines
• Information for Staff & Faculty
• About Graduate Diversity
• Diverse Student Organizations
• McNair Scholars Resources
• About the Community of Scholars Program
• Graduate Recruitment Ambassadors Program
• Community of Scholars Program Writing Initiative
• Faculty & Staff Resources
• Diversity Recruitment Toolkit
• Summer Institute
• Diversity Office Staff
• What's Happening
• E-Publications
• Submit Content
• News Overview
• Events Overview

Main navigation

• Graduate Students
• Faculty & Staff
• Postdoctoral fellows
• International postdoctoral fellows
• Postdoctoral research trainees

PLEASE NOTE: A new Collective Agreement for Postdoctoral Researchers was signed on June 16, 2023. This website will be updated shortly to reflect changes (e.g. duration of contract, new minimum salary).

Postdoctoral research offers recent Doctoral degree recipients the chance to further their professional development, build on their research, and effectively transition from life as a student to that of an independent scholar. At McGill, postdoctoral candidates have the opportunity to collaborate with some of the world’s foremost professors and researchers, and to work in an environment that supports and celebrates excellence.

In this section, you'll find everything from  registration instructions , to rights & responsibilities  to how to get a work permit if you're joining us from abroad.

Postdoctoral Fellows

Find out more about categories, letter of agreement, healthcare, and resources .

International Postdocs

Find out more about what postdocs should know and do before coming to Canada .

Postdoctoral Research Trainees

Find out more about regulations, application, and registration information .

Want to conduct postdoctoral research at McGill but not sure whether you qualify as a postdoctoral candidate or as academic personnel?  Refer to the table below to find out what category you fit into, and where to go from there!

• Postdoctoral Fellow

Postdoctoral Research Trainee

• Academic Personnel

Postdoctoral Fellow/Scholar/Researcher

In Quebec, ‘Postdoctoral Fellow’ is a regulated category of trainee requiring full time registration at the University in compliance with provincial regulations set out by the Ministère de l'Enseignement supérieur (MES) for the purpose of governing postdoctoral education. Quickly defined, a postdoctoral candidate must be within five years of graduating with a Ph.D. or equivalent (including a recognized health professional degree plus a medical specialty) who are engaged in research at the invitation of and under the supervision of a member of McGill’s academic staff. Please see  definition, status, and policies and procedures governing registration of postdoctoral candidates at McGill.

If your situation does not conform to the MES definition of postdoctoral fellow, you may be eligible to attend McGill as a postdoctoral research trainee. While at McGill, a postdoctoral research trainee can perform research only (may not register for courses or engage in clinical practice). Please see the Research Trainee section for more information.

The following categories of employment are administered by the  Academic Personnel Office . Prospective Research Associates and Visiting Scholars should apply through the McGill Department of their proposed supervisor and through the Academic Personnel Office.

Research Associates

An individual with a Doctoral degree who is more than five years post-graduation can be employed as a  Research Associate  if he/she is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. This is an employment category and cannot be filled by a foreign applicant without prior posting of the position and preference to Canadian applicants.

Visiting Scholar

A Visiting Scholar is:

• An individual who has been practicing a profession and is taking leave from that practice to obtain practical training/experience in research under the supervision of a McGill professor(s), which is not leading to a degree or fulfilling a requirement for a program leading to a medical specialization. 
• An individual employed at another institution who has prior research training and experience and who is coming to McGill to collaborate with a McGill professor on a research project.

The conditions above do not meet the requirements for registration as a postdoctoral fellow as the individuals lack medical specialty or are more than five years post-degree/specialty certification. 

Faculty and staff who work with postdoctoral researchers should visit Working with Postdocs for a description of their responsibilities and instructions on how to fulfill them. Supervisors should also ensure that they're aware of the guiding principles and best practices pertinent to advising postdocs.

Just looking for a list of postdoctoral contacts? Check out our detailed contact page , where we break it down by Faculty and Unit.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial 4.0 International License . Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, McGill University .

Department and University Information

Graduate and postdoctoral studies.

Graduate and Postdoctoral Education

Search form, office of graduate and postdoctoral education (gpe).

GPE is a unit of the Office of the Provost with a mission that supports Georgia Tech’s mission by providing services, advocacy, and development programs for graduate students and postdocs, as well as oversight and strategic initiatives to graduate education.

Office of Graduate Education

Office of Postdoctoral Services

Career Center

Responsible Conduct of Research

Advocacy & Conflict Resolution

• MD | PhD Program
• Master's Programs
• PhD Programs
• Postdoctoral Fellows
• Residency & Fellowship
• Non-Degree Programs
• Visiting Students
• Campus Life at U-M
• Health & Wellness
• Building Your Community
• Accessibility & Disability
• Departments
• Centers & Institutes
• Interdisciplinary Programs
• Facts & Figures
• Medical School Leadership
• Research at the U-M Medical School
• News & Stories
• Requirements
• Interview Day
• Admissions Chats
• AAMC Michigan's 35 Answers
• AAMC Michigan's 10 Financial Aid Answers
• Admitted Students
• Overview & Highlights
• Patient Interaction
• Chief Concern
• Years 3 & 4
• Learning Informatics
• Training Sites
• Leadership Program
• Global Health & Disparities
• Health Policy
• Healthcare Innovation
• Medical Humanities
• Patient Safety & Quality Improvement
• Scientific Discovery
• Doctoring Course
• Evidence-Based Medicine
• Interprofessional Education
• DEIAJ Curriculum
• Language Opportunities
• Curriculum Diagrams
• Grading & Assessments
• Guideline Budget
• Loans & Eligibility
• Financial Aid Application Timeline
• Scholarships & Grants
• Documents & Forms
• Tips & Links
• Tuition Refund Policies
• Consumer Information
• Disbursement & Repayment
• MD Emergency Student Aid Fund
• MD Travel Grant
• Child Care Subsidy
• Residency Interviewing Loans and Resources
• Short-Term University Loan
• Contact the Office of Financial Aid
• Profiles & Demographics
• Culinary Connections
• Students with Disabilities
• Arts & Humanities
• Diversity & Health Equity
• Dual Degrees
• More Possibilities
• Commencement
• Available PhD Programs
• Academic & Social Events
• MSTP Fellows
• Application Process
• Application Requirements
• MD | PhD Curriculum
• Undergrad Summer Program
• Contact the MD | PhD Program
• Bioinformatics
• Biological Chemistry
• Cancer Biology
• Cell & Developmental Biology
• Cellular & Molecular Biology
• Genetics and Genomics
• Health Infrastructures & Learning Systems
• Microbiology & Immunology
• Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology
• Molecular & Cellular Pathology
• Molecular & Integrative Physiology
• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Recruitment Events
• Interview Weekends
• Certificates & Dual Degrees
• Quantitative & Computational Biology Emphasis
• Training Grants
• Facilities & Resources
• Stipend & Benefits
• Professional Development
• Finding a Position
• Funding Your Postdoc
• Hiring Process
• Postdoc Preview
• International Postdocs
• ACGME Fellowships
• Non-Accredited Fellowships
• Postdoctoral Physician Scientist Training
• Salary & Benefits
• Prerequisites
• Visiting Residents & Fellows
• Application Overview & Requirements
• Tuition & Fees
• Timeline & Curriculum
• Information Sessions
• Program Details
• Undergrad Summer Research
• First Days Survival Guide
• Health Services
• Mental Health
• Health, Spirituality & Religion Program
• For Partners & Families
• Things to Do in Ann Arbor
• Getting Around
• Graduate Medical Education
• Office of Continuing Medical Education
• Office of Faculty Affairs & Faculty Development
• Office of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies
• Physician Scientist Education & Training
• Office of Medical Student Education
• Points of Blue

Invitation to Explore

Discover why fellows choose the U-M Medical School for their postdoctoral studies.

As one of the world’s largest research institutions, the University of Michigan Medical School offers and supports a wide variety of postdoctoral opportunities. We invite you to explore the many options available to you at our Postdoc Preview, from mentors and fields of research to networking and career choices.

Learn more about Postdoc Preview

See internal and external funding and development resources across campus.

View tips on meeting and working with potential mentors.

Tips and resources for the international postdoc fellow experience.

What's so special about Michigan? Here are 8 reasons our postdoctoral fellows choose U-M:

• World-class researchers. Work with mentors in all of the Medical School’s basic science and clinical departments.
• Highly funded. Our Medical School ranks highly in NIH and other funding , which creates many options for you.
• Collaborative environment. Scientists reach out and support each other, inside labs and across departments.
• Dedicated training. As an automatic member of the UMPDA , courtesy of the University of Michigan, you gain access to many events, seminars, workshops and resources from the National Postdoctoral Association for your career development.
• Active postdoctoral community. The UMPDA also sponsors many fun and family friendly social activities  for all postdoctoral fellows throughout the year.
• Diverse research community. Approximately half of our postdoctoral fellows are from countries outside of the U.S.
• Teaching and mentoring opportunities. Many postdoctoral fellows mentor graduate and undergraduate students and have support in developing these skills.
• Ann Arbor. Our town is a welcoming and sophisticated gem in the heart of the American Midwest that consistently ranks at the top of many lists for places to live, work, and have fun. Read more about life in Ann Arbor and Michigan Medicine under Our Community .

Learners in our program have an intersectionality of many identities, perspectives and experiences. We embrace the diversity within our community and are committed to continuously enriching a more diverse, equitable and inclusive legacy . Read the  University’s 2024 statement on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion .

Who you train with has a big impact on where you go next. View tips on identifying prospective mentors as you explore options for the future.

We transform lives through bold discovery, compassionate care and innovative education.

• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
• Find a Doctor
• Conditions & Treatments
• Patient & Visitor Guide
• Patient Portal
• Clinical Trials
• Research Labs
• Research Centers
• Cores and Resources
• Programs & Admissions
• Our Community
• Departments, Centers & Offices
• About the Medical School

Global Footer Secondary Navigation

What is a Postdoc? Understanding the difference between academic, industry, government and non-profit positions

A postdoc (or "post-doc," "postdoctoral," or "postdoctoral research") fellowship is a training-focused position available to people who have earned a doctorate. Postdoc positions usually act as a stepping-stone between the student experience and the full-time professional experience. For the postdoc appointee, a postdoc position offers in-depth training. For the postdoc institution or organization, a postdoc is a dedicated researcher, with specialized knowledge but flexible to explore other topics, often with lower a financial cost than a permanent employee.

The most common type of postdoc position is a research-focused position at an academic institution, but postdocs also exist in industry, government, non-profit, and other non-academic organizations. Most postdocs are focused on research, but there are also opportunities in specialized areas such as technology transfer and policy at all types of organizations.

Academic postdocs

Academic postdocs tend to be focused on research and the academic experience. A postdoc typically has a higher degree of freedom in determining the direction of their research than a Ph.D. student. Postdocs are often expected to secure grants (as lead principal investigators or collaborators) and teach courses in addition to completing research objectives and publishing results.

Some research groups may offer high-performing Ph.D. students the opportunity to stay at the same institution, even within the same research group. Treat any offer like this carefully! It is an honor to be recognized as such a benefit to the research group, but will you be able to get the training you need if you stay in the same location? Also be aware that many future employers prefer candidates who have taken risks by moving to a new area (mentally, if not physically) and have broadened their area of expertise.

Industry postdocs

Industry postdocs can vary significantly between organizations. Most have a focus on teamwork, while valuing independent thought and development. A postdoc may be viewed as a "stepping stone" position, somewhere between an entry-level position and a higher-value research position... or it could be a distinguished staff scientist position with an opportunity for higher pay. For many organizations, while the postdoc position is a one to two year contract, it can serve as a pathway to a permanent position within the organization. Many industry postdocs offer easier access to state-of-the-art facilities, whereas many academic postdocs only provide access to these facilities through collaborations with other organizations.

Government postdocs

Government postdocs have some similarities with academic and industry postdocs. Like academic positions, there is often an expectation to publish a high number of manuscripts; however, the salary offered may be higher than that of an academic postdoc. There may be fewer opportunities to write external grants, which could be a detriment to any future applications to an academic (especially tenure-track) position. Depending on the organization, there may be fewer opportunities to teach compared to an academic postdoc. Like industry postdocs, government postdocs can act as a stepping stone to a permanent position within the organization and can provide access to state-of-the-art federal facilities.

Non-profit postdocs

Non-profit postdocs can offer a less traditional option with similar benefits to academic postdocs. The focus of a non-profit postdoc can cover any topic, from food scarcity to sports management. There is likely a strong focus on grant writing and collaborative efforts, although possibly fewer opportunities to teach.

Meet some of the ORISE participants who are advancing scientific research and discovery

ORISE administers STEM education programs on behalf of the U.S. Department of Energy and other federal agencies. The diversity of these programs enables individuals—whether undergraduate, graduate, postdoc, or faculty—to conduct collaborative research with national laboratories or at one of DOE's federal agency partners. Learn about how their research experiences have advanced their academic and professional careers.

Read success stories

• English Language Programs
• Postdoctoral Affairs
• Training Grant Support
• Request Information

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

• Academic Programs
• Explore Programs

JD/PhD Combined Degree Program

• Degree Requirements

Learn more about the program by visiting the Northwestern's JD-PhD program

See related Interdisciplinary Clusters and Certificates

Degree Types: JD/PhD

Northwestern’s Graduate School and School of Law offer an integrated JD and PhD program for students interested in pursuing a career in academia or another research setting (e.g., a policy research organization) and whose teaching and research will be enriched by both the JD and PhD degrees. The JD/PhD Combined Degree Program prepares students to conduct innovative research on law at the cross section of disciplines. Recognizing that a growing trend among top law schools is to hire faculty who have PhDs as well as law degrees, Northwestern offers the most efficient, cohesive, and affordable option for future academics wishing to pursue their doctoral and law degrees simultaneously.

The program’s curriculum allows students to complete both degrees more efficiently than they would through consecutive degree programs. Students can complete the entire program (including dissertation) in as few as six years, depending on the requirements of the particular PhD program.

Students can select a doctoral program in any discipline, provided they can incorporate their interest in law with their graduate research and they can complete a dissertation that draws on both disciplines.

Application to the JD/PhD program requires acceptance into both The Graduate School and the Law School.

Additional resources:

• Department website
• Program handbook(s)

Program Statistics

Visit PhD Program Statistics for statistics such as program admissions, enrollment, student demographics and more.

Program Co-Director: Kyle Rozema Program Co-Director: Nadav Shoked

Program Overview

Northwestern's JD-PhD program is open to students who intend to pursue an academic or research career and whose teaching and research will be enriched by both degrees. The program is designed to allow students to complete both degrees more effectively than they would through consecutive degree programs.

Graduation Requirements

The JD and PhD degrees are awarded concurrently after all degree requirements are satisfied for both programs, including completion of:

• Two years of Law School credit (at least 59 credit hours) in addition to the 14 credit hours awarded for law-related interdisciplinary graduate course work, 
• All Law School JD requirements (apart from course hours), and
• 12 credit hours will be awarded toward the JD upon completion of the dissertation
• JD-PhD students are required to have a member of the Northwestern Law faculty on their dissertation committee.

Typical Program Structure 1

 Subject to PhD departmental requirements.

Last Updated: September 12, 2023

• Jacobs Technion-Cornell Dual MS Degrees – Connective Media Concentration
• Jacobs Technion-Cornell Dual MS Degrees – Health Tech Concentration
• Jacobs Technion-Cornell Dual MS Degrees – Urban Tech Concentration
• Johnson Cornell Tech MBA
• Master of Engineering in Computer Science
• Master of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Master of Engineering in Operations Research and Information Engineering
• Master of Laws (LLM) in Law, Technology, and Entrepreneurship
• Master of Science in Design Technology
• Master of Engineering in Computer Science (Part Time)

PhD Studies

Runway startup postdocs.

• Faculty & Practitioners
• Real-World Access
• Plan your event
• Tour Campus

CONNECT WITH US

2 West Loop Road, New York, NY 10044

PhD & Post Doctoral Programs

• Master's Curricula
• Jacobs Technion-Cornell Dual Master of Science Degrees with a Concentration in Connective Media
• Jacobs Technion-Cornell Dual Master of Science Degrees with a Concentration in Health Tech
• Jacobs Technion-Cornell Dual Master of Science Degrees with a Concentration in Urban Tech
• Master in Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Master in Operations Research and Information Engineering
• Intellectual Property
• Benefits & Perks
• Corporate Support
• Runway Application
• Degree Programs

Graduate Education For A Digital World

A Cornell Tech education fosters the innovation, collaboration and builder mindset demanded of tech leaders in today’s environment. To generate innovation and innovative leaders, we had to rethink graduate tech education itself. So our programs reflect the flexibility, technical depth and cross-fertilization of ideas and disciplines the digital age demands.

Our PhD candidates pursue leading-edge tech research with guidance from faculty members in their respective fields. More broadly they have the opportunity to interact with the entire Cornell Tech campus to add business and entrepreneurial perspectives to their work.

The Runway Startup Postdocs Program is part business school, part research institution, and part startup incubator. Based at the Jacobs Technion-Cornell Institute, Runway ushers recent PhDs in digital technology fields from an academic mindset to an entrepreneurial outlook.