1. Eligibility & Appointment
Q1: Who is eligible for a postgraduate appointment?
A: Individuals with a bachelor’s, master’s, or equivalent degree and no more than two years of relevant post-degree research experience. They must not hold a terminal degree (e.g., PhD, MD).
Q2: Can currently enrolled students at other institutions be appointed?
A: Only if there is a formal agreement between Yale and the student’s home institution. Otherwise, they should apply through the appropriate visiting student programs.
Q3: What documentation is required for an appointment?
A: The application must include:
- Appointment dates and title (Associate or Fellow)
- CV
- Compensation amount and source
- Educational objectives and training plan
- Updated training plan for reappointments
2. Appointment Process & Terms
Q4: How long can a postgraduate appointment last?
A: Typically one year, renewable for a second year. A third year may be approved on a case-by-case basis.
Q5: Can appointments be part-time?
A: Yes, but only in limited cases with prior approval.
Q6: What is the process for resignation or termination?
A:
- Resignation: One month’s notice is expected.
- Termination: Requires three months’ notice for funding loss; performance-related terminations must follow a warning process.
3. Benefits & Time Off
Q7: What benefits are available to appointees?
A: Health and dental insurance, paid time off (12 business days/year), sick leave (9 days/year), and access to Yale facilities.
Q8: Can appointees audit Yale courses?
A: Yes, with mentor and instructor approval. Courses must align with training objectives.
Q9: How is PTO tracked?
A: Departments are responsible for tracking PTO and leave requests.
4. Training & Expectations
Q10: What are the mentor’s responsibilities?
A: Provide training per the plan, support educational activities, ensure compliance with research and safety standards, and document research appropriately.
Q11: What are the appointee’s responsibilities?
A: Fulfill training objectives, participate in aligned activities, and comply with all relevant policies and regulations.
Q12: Can appointees work outside Yale?
A: Only with prior consultation with the Office for Postdoctoral Affairs and mentor approval. Must not interfere with training.
5. Administrative Roles
Q13: What are departmental administrators responsible for?
A:
- Advising faculty on policy
- Ensuring complete applications
- Submitting appointment and renewal paperwork
- Tracking time off and submitting leave requests
Q14: When should OISS be consulted?
A: For international appointees—before appointments, for leave requests, and in case of resignation or termination.
Q15: What support does the Office for Postdoctoral Affairs provide?
A: Appointment processing, policy guidance, benefits and leave administration, compliance support, and programming for postgrads.