Postdoctoral Appointments
University-wide, postdocs are appointed in the titles of Postdoctoral Research Scholar (non-employee status, paid by stipend) or Postdoctoral Research Associate (employee status, paid by salary). Training is limited to 5 years, including time spent in either title or at other institutions, but excludes clinical training. See also Postdoctoral Appointments for a comparison of titles.
Salary/Stipend
For fiscal year 2020 (July 1, 2019-June 30, 2020), the minimum will be $50,004 (per year, defined as a 12-month period).
For fiscal year 2021 (July 1, 2020-June 30, 2021), the minimum will be $52,704 (per year, defined as a 12-month period). This is only the minimum amount. Individual compensation should be discussed with the appointing faculty member. It is recommended that postdocs be reviewed annually and given raises as appropriate (see current NIH NRSA Stipend Levels for guidance or contact the department / school administrator for information on compensation guidelines).
Annual Review
It is recommended that postdocs and their faculty advisor use the Annual Review Form to discuss progress annually. In addition, regular meetings to discuss research progress and professional development are highly beneficial.
Benefits
Policies
- Time Off and Leave Policies
- Washington University Postdoctoral Education Policy (PDF)
- School of Medicine Implementation Policy (PDF)
- School of Medicine Additional Guidelines
- Postdoctoral Appointments in Arts & Sciences
- WU Institutional Policies
The above policies include what to do when there is a conflict or issue during postdoc training. Postdocs can also access the confidential services of the Ombuds Office.
Training Completion
Postdocs must complete the Exit Surveys prior to the end of their appointment.
- Exit Survey 1 – Postdoc Experience Survey
- Exit Survey 2 – Postdoc Career Outcomes
Human Resources has information summarizing benefits status when leaving the university.