Introduction to Postdoctoral Appointment Policy at UCLA

At the University of California, Los Angeles, the postdoctoral experience emphasizes scholarship and continued research training for individuals who have recently completed a doctoral degree. The Postdoctoral Scholar conducts research under the general oversight of a UCLA faculty mentor in preparation for a career position in academe, industry, government or the non-profit sector. Postdoctoral work provides essential training in many disciplines for individuals pursuing academic careers and may include opportunities to enhance teaching and other professional skills.

Postdoctoral scholars contribute to the academic community by enhancing the research and education programs of the University. They bring expertise and creativity that enrich the research environment for all members of the University community, including graduate and undergraduate students. The University strives to provide a stimulating, positive, and constructive experience for the Postdoctoral Scholar by emphasizing the mutual commitment and responsibility of the institution, the faculty and the Postdoctoral Scholar.

Policy (APM 390)

The Academic Personnel Manual, Section 390 (APM 390) (PDF-175KB), defines and sets forth terms and conditions relating to the appointment of Postdoctoral Scholars. It applies to both (1) Postdoctoral Scholars who are employees of the University and (2) Postdoctoral Scholars who are appointed as fellows and paid stipends (“Fellowship”) by extramural agencies either directly or through the University.

Note, all provisions of APM 390 apply to the appointment of Postgraduate Researchers, as well, with the exception of sections 60 (Sick Leave), 61 (Time Off) and 76 (Benefit Plans).

Definition (APM 390-4)

Postdoctoral Scholar appointments are temporary positions with fixed end dates intended to provide a full-time program of advanced academic preparation and research training. Individuals pursuing clinical fellowships and residencies in the health sciences are excluded from appointment to these titles.

Postdoctoral Scholars train under the direction and supervision of faculty mentors in preparation for academic and research careers. In addition to pursuing advanced preparation in research, Postdoctoral Scholars may be approved to engage in other activities to enhance teaching and other professional skills. If formal teaching duties are assigned, a Postdoctoral Scholar must hold both a Postdoctoral Scholar title and an appropriate teaching title. Under this circumstance, the full-time Postdoctoral Scholar appointment percentage will be reduced accordingly.

Ordinarily, Postdoctoral Scholars are not permitted to serve as principal investigators on extramurally-sponsored contracts or grants. Because the University recognizes that proposal preparation is an important aspect of most postdoctoral training, campuses may permit Postdoctoral Scholars to serve as principal investigators on awards that are restricted to Postdoctoral Scholars, on small awards for research expenses or travel, or in other circumstances approved by the Chancellor.

Responsibility (APM 390-6)

Faculty mentors are responsible for guiding and monitoring the advanced training of Postdoctoral Scholars. In that role, faculty mentors should make clear the goals, objectives and expectations of the training program and the responsibilities of Postdoctoral Scholars. They should regularly and frequently communicate with Postdoctoral Scholars, provide regular and timely assessments of the Postdoctoral Scholar’s performance, and provide career advice and job placement assistance.

At UCLA, the Postdoctoral Scholar appointment is subject to the approval of the Graduate Division Dean. Currently, Associate Dean M. Belinda Tucker serves in this capacity. However, all appointment requests should be initially reviewed and submitted to the Graduate Division's Office of Postdoctoral & Visiting Scholar Services in 1228 Murphy Hall (Mailcode: 144401).