Postdoctoral Appointments
University-wide, postdoctoral trainees 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, and excluding clinical training.
Postdoctoral Compensation
Washington University postdoc minimum compensation (whether salary or stipend) is based on the NIH NRSA Postdoctoral Year 1 stipend amount. Accordingly, Washington University postdoc minimum compensation is $56,880 per year (defined as a 12-month period) as of July 1, 2023, for the fiscal year 2024.
Importantly, this establishes only the required minimum salary or stipend. Individual compensation should be discussed with the appointing faculty member.
Postdoctoral Benefits
Washington University offers eligible postdoctoral appointees a comprehensive benefits package:
- Postdoc Health Benefits Plans (includes health, dental and vision plans; life and AD&D insurance; long term disability)
- WUCare, preferred employee and family access to world-class primary care
- Employee and Family Outpatient Therapy and Psychiatric Services
- Danforth Campus and Medical Campus Lactation Room Program
- 24/7 support and information through Work-Life Solutions (EAP) (includes emotional support, work-life resources, legal and financial guidance, etc.)
- Postdoc Paid Parental and Caregiver Leave
- Postdoc Tuition Assistance
- Dedicated support through the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs
- Commuter Assistance (Metro U-Pass)
Postdoctoral Policies
Washington University establishes regulations to protect postdoctoral appointees and enhance the postdoctoral experience:
- Washington University Postdoctoral Education Policy (PDF)
- School of Medicine Implementation Policy (PDF)
- Postdoctoral Appointments in Arts & Sciences
- Postdoctoral Appointee Time Off Policy (PDF)
- Postdoctoral Appointee Tuition Assistance (PDF)
- Postdoctoral Appointments on a Temporarily Reduced Schedule (PDF)
- WashU Employee Handbooks
- WashU Institutional Policies
Postdoc Annual Review
Faculty supervisors and their postdoctoral appointees are expected to establish a mentor-mentee relationship and regularly meet to discuss research progress and professional development. Annual reviews should lead to compensation increases appropriate to the postdoc’s experience and performance.