How do you become a postdoc at Waterloo?
Thank you for your interest in The University of Waterloo, one of Canada's premier research-intensive universities.
Whether this is your first postdoc position or not, we’re excited to guide you through the process. Below are the steps to obtain a postdoc position:
1. Confirm your eligibility for a postdoc position
Review our postdoc guidelines to confirm that you meet the eligibility criteria to become a Waterloo postdoc, before applying for funding or contacting a supervisor.
Note: Those interested in obtaining a research-based position but who are not eligible to be hired as a postdoc based on the guidelines linked above (e.g. received PhD more than five years ago), may still be eligible for employment at the University of Waterloo under a different employee category. We recommend inquiring with potential supervisors if they may be hiring a Research Associate or if they may be interested in hosting a visiting researcher (if you are affiliated with another institution or training program).
2. Understand funding models for postdocs at Waterloo
Postdoc positions can be funded in a variety of ways. Learning about the various funding models will allow you to explore your options and contact potential supervisors appropriately.
3. Explore (and apply for) postdoc funding opportunities (optional)
If, after reviewing postdoc funding models, you wish to secure your own funding for a postdoc position, start exploring and applying for funding opportunities.
4. Review immigration timelines and information (if applicable)
If you are not a Canadian resident, you will need a work permit before starting a postdoc position. As an international candidate, it’s important to understand work permit processing timelines before contacting prospective supervisors so you can establish a realistic start date if a supervisor is interested in hiring you as a postdoc.
5. Contact prospective supervisors
Once you have confirmed you are eligible to be a postdoc, have understood funding models, and are moving forward with funding applications or seeking a supervisor with funding, it’s time to start reaching out to prospective supervisors. Review our tips for finding a potential supervisor and sending them a professional message.
6. Receive an offer!
Congratulations! If you receive an offer for a postdoc position, the next step is to review your offer details. You can find information to support you in reviewing your offer, and next steps, on our webpage for incoming postdocs.
We look forward to welcoming you to our vibrant research community at the University of Waterloo. Looking for more information on making the transition to postdoc life at Waterloo? Check out Hector Perez’s experience in our postdoc profiles.