Frequently Asked Questions
The following FAQs are provided to address commonly asked questions from researchers, faculty and others, about Postdoctoral Affairs. Select question to see answer.
Are there postdocs interested in starting a Postdoc Association at FAU and becoming part of the National Postdoctoral Association?
If there are, the DOR Office of Postdoctoral Affairs would encourage and support this as best it could. However, this is something that would have to be organized and driven by a postdoc, and sufficient fellows would need to be interested in it.
How many postdocs does FAU have and are they all recognized/hired in with the same title?
There are approximately 27 postdocs who mostly have been converted to the new Postdoc category. However, there are a handful who were grandfathered in on a faculty position, as their offer letter indicated as such. All new Postdocs will hold the same title.
Are there teaching opportunities for postdocs at FAU? (online classes or in person)?
This conversation has been started with the new Provost and will continue. Team teaching may also be something to consider. However, it would be important to have this discussion with your advisor first to determine if it is the right decision for you. Not every discipline or situation will hold the same emphasis on teaching. And, postdocs are hired into a research position. Acceptance from your advisor would therefore be key.
How many fellowships can a post doc apply to, when he already received one?
If applying simultaneously, this is typically driven by the rules of the sponsor who often do not allow additional applications. If consecutive, you can apply to as many fellowships as you like (unless otherwise noted).
Is there a protocol in place for international postdocs? E.g., are thing different for potential postdocs who obtain PhDs outside the US, w/o current visa?
The DOR has had discussions with the Office of International Studies and suggests that all Visa related questions be directed toward that office.
What are the benefits in the contract for FAU postdocs?
See the Postdoc policy located on our website. Here you will find the details. In short, the benefits include 10 days of annual leave and 5 days of sick leave. Neither leave categories will allow for payout at the end of your employment nor roll over to the next year. The health insurance options are the same as AMP/Faculty.
For postdocs hired in “faculty” positions, will they be “down graded” to this new postdoc category losing associated benefits? Or will they retain their status?
Postdocs who were hired on a faculty line and whose offer letter indicates this will not be modified into a postdoc category. They will stay in current standing. All new postdoc hires will come in under the new post doc category.
Are postdocs eligible for bonuses?
Postdocs are not eligible for bonuses. Keep in mind postdocs are usually funded from grants which in most cases do not allow for bonus pay.
Are there plans to provide small grant opportunities for postdocs? (For travel or courses)?
At present, there are not enough funds available for travel grants. In time, as IDC grows, the DOR hopes to offer such grants for both faculty and postdocs.
Are there any opportunities to help with grant writing for PostDocs?
Yes – please contact the Office of Research Development located in the Division of Research. They will help you find funding and assist with grant writing, proof-reading, and editing.
Would a Postdoc Association be able to fundraise for travel funds?
Yes – if there was someone to organize such an association, any fund raising could be pooled to provide travel assistance. The DOR would support this.
If there is a cap on leave, then what will be the options for maternity leave?
This is ultimately a question for HR, but the assumption would be that an individual could utilize their sick and vacation leave and/or file under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) which allows eligible employees to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons with continuation of group health insurance coverage.