A Postdoctoral Fellow-Direct Pay (PDF-Direct Pay) is an individual appointed solely at Brown but paid by an external grant or fellowship that is not directed through the University payroll system. A PDF-Direct Pay is not considered an employee of the University. Details on benefits and policies concerning a PDF-Direct Pay can be found below.
Postdoctoral Affairs
PDF-Direct Pay - Benefits
Benefits and Services For PDF-Direct Pay
Please note, the following information does not apply to postdoctoral fellows who receive NRSA funding from the NIH.
Because postdoctoral fellows are not considered employees of Brown University, the University does not provide them with vacation leave, and they should check their fellowship’s policies for guidance.
It is best practice for fellows to plan some personal time during the year and an allocation of 10 days is recommended to align with the vacation days provided to Postdoctoral Research Associates. Brown assigns 10 vacation days in Workday to each fellow at the start of their appointment, though these are intended for tracking purposes only and do not signify that the University provides vacation as a benefit.
A PDF-Direct Pay should arrange their work schedule with their PI and department, and ensure their time away is consistent with the terms and conditions of their funding source.
If a postdoctoral fellow or PI needs assistance in establishing an equitable plan for time away from work, they are encouraged to contact the Office of University Postdoctoral Affairs at postdoc-affairs@brown.edu.
Last updated: November 3, 2023.
Because postdoctoral fellows are not considered employees of Brown University, they should check their fellowship’s policies for guidance. For reference, below are guidelines from the National Science Foundation (NSF).
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Per the NSF guidelines, the NSF allows 30 days of paid leave for maternity or family leave.
Last Updated: July 14, 2023
Postdoctoral fellows who are paid directly by an external fellowship are eligible for the Child Care Subsidy for Medical Students and Postdoctoral Fellows only if they are working at least 67% time on the Brown payroll.
Brown University's Child Care Subsidy helps eligible employees with the costs of child care expenses for eligible dependents ages 0 to 6. The subsidy grants a potential maximum yearly award of $1,000-$4,000.
Tax information related to the Child or Dependent Care Credit for Postdoctoral Appointees
- Publication 503 Child and Dependent Care Expenses (in particular, see the earned income test)
- IRS Form 2441, Dependent and Child Care Expenses, Instructions
Last updated: November 3, 2023.
Tax Withholding and Estimated Taxes
You might find this tax guide from the National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) helpful. It is recommended that you consult your personal tax advisor to figure out whether or not you need to pay estimated taxes on a regular basis during your fellowship.
Tax information related to the Child or Dependent Care Credit for Postdoctoral Appointees
- Publication 503 Child and Dependent Care Expenses (in particular, see the earned income test)
- IRS Form 2441, Dependent and Child Care Expenses, Instructions
Although postdoctoral fellows are not considered employees of Brown University, they are eligible for Spring Health Brown's Employee Assistance Program (EAP). This program exists to assist employees and their immediate families in coping with personal problems. Spring Health, Brown's Employee Assistance Program (EAP) administers counseling, coaching, and support services for employees, including up to 10 therapy sessions, legal assistance, financial services, child and elder care, travel, and more. Click here to learn more about the available services.
Last updated: November 3, 2023.
Postdoctoral fellows are eligible to pay for additional voluntary benefits, including mortgage assistance, automobile and/or homeowners insurance, commuter choice spending accounts, long-term care insurance, and pet insurance. Click here to learn more from University Human Resources.
Last updated: November 3, 2023.
A PDF-Direct Pay may join the Brown Recreation Center at the same rates as Brown University employees. To learn more, visit the Brown Recreation website and click on "Membership Services."
Last updated: November 3, 2023.
With a Brown ID, postdoctoral fellows can ride any RIPTA bus or trolley anywhere in the state free of charge. Please note that the RIPTA pass program does not include the Providence-Newport ferry. Click here to learn more about the RIPTA UPass program.
Last updated: November 3, 2023.
Postdoctoral fellows are eligible for discounts with participating businesses through the BEAR Bargains program along with all other members of the University community. Click here to see a list of discounts provided by University Human Resources.