Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is among twelve U.S. research institutions recognized by the National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) as modeling policies and practices that support postdoctoral excellence. Recipients of the NPA’s Institutional Policy Awards, announced today, are highlighted for their “outstanding commitment to advancing the postdoctoral experience.”
Institutions receiving this recognition were selected for their overall alignment with the NPA’s “Recommended Postdoctoral Policies and Practices.” The recognition reflects sustained institutional commitment across the broad range of policies that shape the postdoctoral experience, according to the NPA’s announcement. Key policy areas include appointment and compensation practices, mentoring, professional development, career preparation, and institutional support.
“Postdoctoral scholars are vital to the strength of the research enterprise — not only for the outstanding research they conduct during their time at MIT, but for the role they will play in advancing research as independent scholars, mentors, and leaders throughout their careers,” said Ann Skoczenski, director of MIT Postdoctoral Services. “As the postdoctoral period is intended to prepare researchers for careers as independent investigators, whether in academia, industry, or elsewhere, MIT prioritizes high-quality mentoring to advance each postdoc’s goals for professional development.”
At MIT, a postdoctoral mentoring and advising toolkit provides the framework for ongoing career development during the term of the postdoctoral appointment. The Guide for MIT Postdocs and Faculty Advisors further outlines expectations for a productive and mutually fulfilling relationship in the research setting. MIT policies strive to provide a robust set of benefits to both postdoctoral associates and postdoctoral fellows, and the Institute maintains a competitive minimum salary/stipend that takes into account the regional cost of living, among other factors.
MIT Postdoctoral Services and Vice President for Research Ian Waitz engage closely with the postdoc-led MIT Postdoctoral Association to identify and understand issues of importance to postdoctoral well-being and excellence.
“Improving the postdoctoral experience is a community effort,” said Erin Heckler, vice chair of NPA’s board of directors, in the NPA announcement. “The NPA, recognizing the work of these institutions as examples of policies and practices, shares what progress is possible for everyone.”