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

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

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

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

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.

See Also

• Doctor of Philosophy
• Research Fellow
• Academic Career
• Research

References

Postdoctoral Resources
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