Waterloo is home to over 350 postdocs across all six of our faculties; Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs is here to:
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Support the University of Waterloo postdoc community
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Advocate for, secure, and promote postdoc resources and benefits
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Establish guidelines for postdoctoral appointments
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Offer guidance to faculty and staff who hire postdocs
What is a postdoctoral scholar?
A postdoctoral scholar (postdoc) is an individual who holds a doctoral degree and is seeking further training in an area of research to support their career objective of becoming an independent researcher either inside or outside of academia. Postdoctoral scholars are valuable members of the University of Waterloo community and make important contributions to research and the community.
Did you know?
Postdoctoral scholars are a separate job category from research associates or research assistants. At the University of Waterloo, there are three distinct categories of postdoctoral scholars: postdoctoral scholar employees (type A), postdoctoral scholar employees (type B), and postdoctoral scholar associates.
Stay informed. Get connected.
Events
Postdoc Hot Chocolate Social
Drop by to enjoy free hot chocolate (with all the toppings!), delicious treats, and great conversation. This is a perfect chance to network and connect with fellow postdocs, and meet your Postdoc Engagement Liaisons.
Exploring Canada: Travel Tips and Hidden Gems
Join Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs for an exciting webinar packed with practical tips, advice, and insider information to help you make the most of your summer travels.
News
Launch of the Canada Impact+ Research Training Awards for Postdoctoral Scholars
Advance your research career in Canada with the Canada Impact+ Research Training Awards (CIRTA), a prestigious new opportunity designed to support outstanding postdoctoral scholars working or studying around the world.
Postdoc Engagement Liaison Year in Review
The Postdoc Engagement Liaison Year in Review.
Celebrating National Postdoc Appreciation Week 2025
Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA) is excited to celebrate National Postdoc Appreciation Week (NPAW) at the University of Waterloo for the tenth year from September 15-19, 2025.
Waterloo Postdoc Profiles
Thomas Kwok
Thomas is a postdoctoral scholar in the Active and Interactive Robotics Lab in the Faculty of Engineering.
“My advice is to choose a supervisor and research team who are genuinely supportive, not only of your research but also of your well-being and career development. A positive and encouraging environment can make a huge difference in navigating the challenges of postdoc life and adjusting to a new country.”