Effective August 1, 2024, the University of Waterloo has updated its postdoctoral guidelines to provide more clarity, better support, and a structured framework for postdoctoral appointments. The guidelines include key changes to improve clarity, fairness, and alignment with current standards.
Main areas of change:
- Increased salary: The minimum annual salary for postdoctoral scholars has been raised from $30,121 to $45,000, effective September 1, 2024. This increase reflects a commitment to providing competitive compensation for postdoctoral positions.
- Extended eligibility criteria: Candidates must have completed their PhD within the last 5 years (60 months). However, they can be eligible for up to 8 years post-PhD if they have experienced specific interruptions such as maternity leave, illness, or other significant life events. This adjustment allows for a more inclusive approach to postdoctoral appointments.
- New appointment categories: Postdoctoral appointments are now categorized into three types:
- Type A: Full employment by University of Waterloo, with full benefits (e.g. health, dental, pension).
- Type B: Partial employment by University of Waterloo with benefits proportional to the university’s contribution.
- Associate: Fully funded externally with no benefits.
- Minimum appointment length: New postdoc appointments must be at least one year for international scholars and three months for Canadian scholars or those recently completing a postdoc or PhD in Canada. This ensures a more stable and predictable appointment duration.
- Updated benefits and compliance: The new guidelines provide detailed information on benefits, including health, dental, and pension plans. All appointments must be approved by the faculty dean, with exceptions requiring Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA) approval.
- Administrative improvements: All new appointments and agreements, as of September 1, 2024, must adhere to the University of Waterloo’s approved postdoc employment agreement. The guidelines include a structured review process and regular updates to ensure compliance and relevance.
These guideline updates aim to provide a structured, supportive environment for postdoctoral scholars, ensuring their roles are well-defined. They underscore the University of Waterloo's commitment to fostering a supportive and equitable environment for postdoctoral scholars, aiding their growth and success in their future careers.
On August 13, GSPA hosted an information session with members of the university who recruit, hire and support postdoctoral scholars to review the refined guidelines and resources. This session was recorded and can now be found on the Confluence (resources) site.