Myth busting: What exactly is a postdoc?

What is a postdoc?

This is a question I hear often. Outside of the world of academia (and sometimes even to those in academia) the postdoc may appear to be an elusive creature of myth and folklore. As noted by the National Postdoc Association in their “What’s a Postdoc” resource, “The world needs to know more about postdocs. Much more.” To most, they are known to be extremely intelligent researchers that are shackled to their labs and only escape briefly to write grant proposals.

Of course this is not reality, but for many postdocs working in Canadian Institutions, it may feel this way. Postdoctoral scholars conduct their research in silos and are not always included in the rich, diverse, university campus culture. So what exactly is the function of a postdoc?

After one has successfully defended their PhD thesis, they may choose to jump into research as a postdoc. A postdoc, also known as a fellow, postdoctoral fellow, or postdoctoral scholar, is a practiced researcher. They work throughout Canadian institutions and conduct the research that drives the innovation in academia and industry. It is important to note that postdoc eligibility, status and guidelines may vary greatly. The presence of postdoc unions is an example of the diversity of guidelines and regulations that surround postdocs. Some institutions have unionized positions and others do not. Sometimes, despite the presence of a postdoc union, individual faculties may not have unionization. Even within one institution, there can effectively be differing regulations and standards that influence the work life of postdocs.

A postdoc appointment may last from one to five years, which makes it a transient position for many scholars. This intense time in an early researcher’s career is shrouded with palpable pressure to mentor, supervise, publish papers and complete research.

What does a postdoc look like? The average age for a postdoc working in Canada ranges from 25-54 years old. They are one of the most internationally diverse groups on campus and are on campus a lot! The average hours spent working range from 45-60 hours per week, according to the most recent report by the Canadian Association of Postdoctoral Scholars. It should be noted that hours range depending upon the institution and lab in which a postdoc works.

Recently the Canadian government has recognized the importance of this role and proposed a budget increase to the Tri-agencies from an average of $50,000 to $70,000  annually to support postdocs. They are arguably one of the most dedicated and hardest working groups in any institution and there is increasing support for this vital rule. Yet, there are still many misconceptions about their role and contributions.  It is time for academics and community members alike to become more informed about his vital role and to bust common postdoc myths.

Myth: Postdocs are students

Postdoctoral scholars are many things. They are researchers, supervisors, mentors, authors, teachers and more. Many Canadian institutions identify them as staff members. They often teach courses but are not faculty. They are often grouped with graduate students but are not students. They reside in an academic “middle ground” or “in between place” which can lead to some misconceptions and issues aligning themselves with an institutional identity.

Myth: Postdocs only work in STEM

Working in STEM is not a prerequisite to working as a postdoc. Postdoctoral appointments are common in all faculties and industries from science to humanities and social sciences. The latest report by the Canadian Association of Postdoctoral Scholars (CAPS) noted that 40 per cent of postdocs worked in life sciences, 35 per cent in physical sciences/engineering and 10 per cent in social sciences/humanities. It should also be noted that postdocs do not just work in academia or in labs. They may work on university campuses, within research institutions or in government agencies.

Myth: All postdocs strive to achieve tenure track teaching positions

A postdoctoral fellowship is often perceived as a means to enhance one’s chances for tenure. This has been historically true for many postdocs. It should be noted however, that things are changing. The most recent publication by CAPS reported that “Longitudinal trends indicate that postdocs in 2020 are increasingly seeking non-tenure track career options, or “alt-ac” options, as compared to earlier postdocs. They are aware of today’s labour market and the challenging academic job market, and they state to be more realistic about their post-postdoc career goals.” At the end of postdoc, there is no guarantee that one will successfully secure a tenure track position.

Summing it all up

Postdocs are important. They are integral researchers trained in their field to conduct crucial studies that will inform all aspects of academia and industry alike. They influence public policy, mentor the next generation of academics and are arguably some of the hardest working folks you may have the pleasure to meet. Next time someone asks you “what is a postdoc?” simply tell them: a postdoc is a researcher whose innovative research can influence the future.