This page is currently under revision to reflect the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) reached on October 8, 2025, between Brown University and the Brown Postdoc Labor Organization. At this time, postdoctoral appointees should refer directly to the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for the most up-to-date information regarding compensation, benefits, and other employment-related information.
Outside Employment for Postdoctoral Appointees
Individuals appointed to postdoctoral ranks at Brown University may engage in compensated work beyond the scope of their primary responsibilities in accordance with University policy. Their ability to do so depends on their appointment type, their funding source, and—if applicable—the terms of their visa. All postdoctoral appointees must comply with University policies on conflict of interest and commitment and outside professional activities, including intellectual property, and use of University resources. Requests must be reviewed by the cognizant dean’s office on a case-by-case basis and in consultation with other relevant University partners, which may include the Office of Sponsored Projects, BioMed Research Administration, the Office of International Students and Scholar Services (OISSS), or the Office of the Dean of the Faculty.
OTHER POLICIES
Policies applicable to postdocs that are not described on the OUPA website can be found using the following resources:
- The Handbook of Academic Administration defines postdoctoral appointments and provides more details about them.
- The Office of the Vice President for Research provides information about internal and external funding opportunities.
Additionally, the following policies may be helpful for postdocs to review:
- Conflict of Interest in Research Policy: The purpose of the Policy on Conflict of Interest in Research is to maintain the integrity of Research conducted at or under the auspices of Brown University.
- Sexual and Gender-Based Harassment, Sexual Assault, Interpersonal Violence, and Stalking Policy: This policy prohibits Sexual Harassment, Gender-Based Harassment, Sexual Assault, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, and Stalking, in addition to Retaliation against an individual for making a report of conduct prohibited under this policy or for participating in an investigation of an alleged violation of this policy.