Postdoctoral

Postdoctoral Researcher

A Postdoctoral Researcher or Postdoc is a person professionally conducting research after the completion of their doctoral studies (PhD). The ultimate goal of a postdoctoral research position is to pursue additional research, training, or teaching in order to have better skills to pursue a career in academia, research, or any other fields.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Postdocs are usually hired by universities, research institutions or companies, where they work under the supervision of experienced researchers. The duration of a postdoc position can vary from one to several years. The postdoc phase is considered as a continuation of the training required to become a proficient scientific researcher.

History[edit | edit source]

The concept of a postdoctoral researcher originated in the United States in the mid-19th century. The first formal postdoctoral program was established at the University of California, Berkeley in 1950.

Roles and Responsibilities[edit | edit source]

Postdocs are expected to conduct independent research, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and contribute to the academic community. They may also be required to supervise junior researchers, teach undergraduate courses, and apply for research funding.

Challenges[edit | edit source]

Despite the valuable experience and skills gained, postdocs face several challenges such as short-term contracts, low salaries, and high pressure to publish. These challenges have led to discussions about the necessity and structure of postdoctoral training.

References[edit | edit source]

Postdoctoral Resources
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