Postdoctoral Fellows (PDF) are in residence to conduct research supported by external fellowships that run through the University; they are normally paid stipends. Most Postdoctoral Fellows are not Brown employees, but they may participate in a University health and dental plan. If the fellowship does not fully meet Brown’s pay minimums and/or expected institutional contribution to health and dental insurance, the appointing office must make sure that an appropriate source has been identified to supplement the fellowship. PDFs are union-eligible.

It is recommended that Postdoctoral Fellows review the Benefits Summary Document for an overview of how benefits compare across appointment types.

Postdoctoral Fellows are encouraged to review the resources available on the Taxes and Withholding webpage, including Personal Finance for PhDs, an external service provided for free by OUPA to help Postdoctoral Fellows understand and manage quarterly estimated taxes. 

Please note, Postdoctoral Research Associates preparing to transition to Postdoctoral Fellow appointments should review the PDRA to PDF Transition webpage for more information about how their benefits and tax treatment will be affected.

BENEFITS FOR POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWS

Details on the benefits and services for Postdoctoral Fellows who are paid by or through Brown's payroll can be found below (listed alphabetical order) or in the side navigation menu. 

• Child Care Subsidy - Postdoctoral Fellows
• Dental Plans - Postdoctoral Fellows
• Employee Assistance Program - Postdoctoral Fellows
• Health Supplement and Tax Offset Subsidy - Postdoctoral Fellows
• Leaves of Absence - Postdoctoral Fellows
• Medical Plans - Postdoctoral Fellows
• Parental Leave - Postdoctoral Fellows
• RIPTA - Postdoctoral Fellows
• Sick Time - Postdoctoral Fellows
• Vacation Time - Postdoctoral Fellows