These procedures supplement the policy on Terms and Conditions of Employment of Postdoctoral Researchers, Clinical Residents and Clinical Interns (VI.F13). Refer to the policy for definitions and applicability.

Effective date: 1/1/2019

Salary and Wages

The minimum annual salary for a full-time fiscal-year Postdoctoral Researcher is $47,500. The minimum annual salary for a full-time academic-year Postdoctoral Researcher is $37,174. The minimums will be evaluated periodically by Human Resources in consultation with the Office of the Provost.

Period of Employment

The recommended initial employment period for Postdoctoral Researchers to be included in the offer letter is three years. Continued employment remains subject to programmatic need, available funding, and satisfactory performance.

For employment contracts written on or after September 21, 2026, the maximum cumulative period of employment in a Postdoctoral Researcher appointment at Purdue University is five years.

For employment contracts written before September 21, 2026, the maximum cumulative period of employment in a Postdoctoral Researcher appointment at Purdue University is six years, consistent with the framework in effect at the time the contract was executed.

Upon reaching the applicable maximum period of postdoctoral employment, the individual must separate from the University or transfer to another position classification for which they are eligible. Extensions or renewals of a Postdoctoral Researcher appointment beyond the applicable maximum period are not permitted.

Appointment Type

Postdoctoral Researcher appointments shall normally be established on a fiscal-year (FY) basis. Fiscal-year appointments are the University’s standard appointment model for Postdoctoral Researchers.

Academic-year (AY) appointments are exceptions to the standard appointment model and may be used only when warranted by academic, programmatic, or operational needs. Academic-year appointments are subject to the provisions of Academic-Year Employment (VI.F.12), as amended or superseded.

Annual Performance Assessment

Postdoctoral Researchers shall participate in the University’s annual performance review process through SuccessFactors. Reviews will be completed during the annual spring performance review cycle.

Supervisors are responsible for completing performance reviews in accordance with University-established procedures and timelines and for conducting associated performance, goal setting, and development discussions with Postdoctoral Researchers.

Process

The hiring process for Postdoctoral Researchers is managed in Success Factors.  Refer to the “Post Doc Quick Hire Process” document maintained by HR for detailed steps. Work with your Business Office to start the hiring process.  Postdoctoral Research positions require department head and fiscal approval.

The Office of the Provost maintains offer letter templates for use as the employment contract. These same templates must be used for any extensions to the employment period. Form 19 will no longer be used.