Postdocs

General Information

The title postdoctoral scholar is used for individuals who have received a doctoral degree and are engaged in a temporary, full-time program of advanced academic preparation and research training under the direction of a faculty mentor/supervisor.

Postdoctoral scholars are covered by the UAW collective bargaining contract.

Exemption from Recruitment

Certain categories of positions are exempt from open recruitment:

H. an individual who comes to the campus to further postdoctoral education (normally appointed as a Postdoctoral Scholar) under the guidance of a particular faculty member. These appointments are viewed as mentoring opportunities (Refer to CAPM 610.000 Postdoctoral policy). 

Option available to open a Recruitment:  While not required, you may choose to use "UC Recruit" to post an open recruitment.  UC Recruit is the online recruitment system for academic positions with the University of California, Santa Cruz. Please work with our Department Manager and PBSci AHR specialist to initiate.  Visit:  How to Launch an Academic Recruitment.

Salary Points and Annual Increases

Postdoctoral Scholar Experience-based Minimum Compensation Rates (Refer to chart at top of page.)

Note:  Nothing precludes that faculty from providing compensation for rates above the minimum. 

Annual Increase as per contract:

October 1, 2024    3.5%

October 1, 2025    3.5%

October 1, 2026    3.5%

Payroll Taxes and Benefits Costs

In addition to the base salary, faculty must also cover payroll taxes and benefit costs.

The current rate for 2023-24 is 16.3 %

Terms of Service

• Postdoctoral scholar appointments are temporary and have fixed beginning and end dates.

• The initial appointment of a postdoctoral scholar at any campus within the UC system shall be for a minimum of two years.

• Reappointment of a postdoctoral scholar shall be for a minimum of one year.

• The total duration of an individual’s postdoctoral service may not exceed five years, including postdoctoral service at other institutions. Under unusual circumstances (e.g., when a postdoctoral scholar has changed fields of study, or the acceptable term of a fellowship in their field is for 3 years) the dean may grant an exception to this limit, not to exceed a sixth year.:

How to Initiate a Hire or Reappointment

Complete the following form:  PARF

You will receive an automated email once you complete the form.  Forward the email to the Department Manager and state "I approve" in your reply.   Attach the candidate's CV to the email.

Annual Review

The faculty mentor shall provide the postdoctoral scholar with (at least) one written review per twelve (12)-month period. This Annual Review is a comprehensive assessment of the postdoctoral scholar’s research progress and achievements, and their professional development during the previous year.

• • See Appendix (D): Individual Development Plan - Postdoctoral Scholar

  • See Appendix (E): Annual Review

Questions? Help?  

Contact the Department Manager and our current PBSci AHR Specialist

PBSci Academic HR Specialist, Jianna DeHoyos (jadehoyo@ucsc.edu)