Host departments are encouraged to welcome the fellow into the department and make every effort to ensure that the fellow is included in communications about departmental colloquia, seminars and social events. Host departments are expected to provide the fellow with information about salary and benefits and administer the fellow's research and professional travel funds. Host departments are expected to provide the fellow with access to appropriate office space and routine administrative support such as telephone lines, departmental mail services, libraries and technical support.

Frequently Asked Questions: U-M Department Chairs

Q: Does the applicant need a letter of support from the department chair?
A: Yes. The University of Michigan President's Postdoctoral Fellowship Program office, in concert with the applicant's proposed faculty mentor, will request a letter of support from the department chair. This separate letter from the department chair should describe the department's level of interest in hiring the applicant into a tenure-track position and/or identify a potential fit with another University of Michigan department, if that is appropriate.

Q: If the applicant is unable to relocate because of family reasons, should s/he still apply?
A: The program requires that fellows are in residence and establish a presence at the mentor's campus, school, or department.

Q: Does the support from the Provost's Office include space?
A: No. The Provost's Office provides a postdoctoral salary of $65,000, and $10,000 for research and professional development. The Provost's Office support also includes enrollment in a health plan for fellow and dependent(s), group life insurance, three weeks of sick leave, and one month (non-accrual) of vacation. It is expected that departments and faculty mentors will make appropriate arrangements for space and other necessary resources.

Q: What are the expectations for UM host departments?
A: Host departments are encouraged to welcome the fellow into the department and make every effort to ensure that the fellow is included in communications about departmental colloquia, seminars and social events. Host departments are expected to provide the fellow with information about salary and benefits and administer the fellow's research and professional travel funds. Host departments are expected to provide the fellow with appropriate office space and routine administrative support. In addition, President's Postdoctoral Fellows should be provided with opportunities for career development, including consideration for a faculty position at the University of Michigan.

Please also see the frequently asked questions for applicants and UM faculty mentors.