Searching for a Post Doctoral Research job in Canada might seem difficult to find because there are so many different organizations that look for these positions. However, the Canadian Organization of Advanced Research (COAR) has taken the time to research and find the best options available, making their job board one of the most respected resources in this field throughout Canada and around the world. This article takes an in-depth look at what Post Doctoral Research jobs are, how to get them, and how to succeed once you’ve got them!
What is a postdoctoral research job?
A postdoctoral research job is a position at a university or lab where someone who has recently graduated with a doctorate degree will be conducting independent research on an area of interest. There are several different kinds of postdocs; however, most often they are considered temporary positions for researchers who haven’t yet secured permanent employment or tenure-track positions at universities or other institutions. Some postdocs may also be hired by private industry, but those positions are much less common than those found in academia.
In general, there are two types of postdoc positions: non-tenure track (also called postdoc fellowships) and tenure track (also called postdoc appointments). The main difference between these two types is whether or not you will eventually be eligible for long-term employment as a professor. The type of appointment also determines how much money you make as well as how much freedom you have to choose your own projects.
The Benefits of Working as a Postdoctoral Researcher
Well-paid, flexible hours, and complete intellectual freedom are just a few of the advantages associated with becoming a postdoctoral researcher. A postdoc is an amazing time to study something you’re passionate about, work on some amazing research, learn some new skills, network and make contacts that will serve you well down your career track.
The biggest advantage of being a postdoc is that you gain more control over your schedule and also get more chances to present your research at conferences. You might even receive funding for attending these events as travel grants can be provided by employers or through fellowships or scholarships. Postdocs also have complete freedom when it comes to choosing their own projects and working with other researchers on collaborative projects.
This means they are not bound by any particular specialty and can choose areas of research that interest them most. Some postdocs even choose to take up additional courses during their term so they have additional training in fields like teaching, management, business, etc., which helps them land better job opportunities after their term ends.
In addition to all these benefits, there is one major benefit that makes working as a postdoc really worth its flexibility! Postdocs have a lot of control over how much they work each day since they don’t have set schedules and deadlines like those who hold regular 9-5 jobs do.
Workload and Work Environment
The workload for post-doctoral fellows can vary significantly depending on where they are employed and what their primary tasks are. It is important to keep in mind that being a post-doctoral fellow is not a temporary position to fill while awaiting tenure or another full-time job; it is an established position with its own set of requirements and expectations.
Postdoctoral fellows are typically required to work more than 40 hours per week (usually more) during busy times, and work can be irregular. This may make balancing family life difficult. Because post-doctoral fellows often work in laboratories, many also spend time working with hazardous chemicals. This may pose safety concerns if precautions are not taken when handling these chemicals. Other hazards include exposure to biological agents and working under potentially dangerous conditions such as high radiation levels or confined spaces.
In addition, because most research takes place at universities, there is always a chance of violence from students who feel strongly about certain issues related to science or medicine.
Education Requirements
For most, a Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) or other doctoral degree is required. Additionally, a postdoctoral research assistant position usually requires several years of experience as a graduate student. While there are no minimum educational requirements for an independent research contractor, many employers prefer candidates with at least some formal training and education in their field.
However, if you have extensive experience and exceptional skills, you may be able to find work as an independent researcher without formal training or education. Some positions do not require any education beyond high school, but it’s important to know that even these entry-level positions require excellent organizational and communication skills.
Employers also expect all employees to keep up with changes in technology, so continuing your education is important regardless of your level of experience. Many organizations provide on-the-job training programs for new hires who don’t already have advanced degrees.
And while these opportunities are extremely competitive, they can give new researchers valuable exposure to new ideas and technologies while also earning them more money than a traditional entry-level position would pay.
Funding Options for Postdoctoral Researchers
To secure funding as a postdoctoral researcher, you’ll likely need to know where and how to look. There are some great websites out there that can help you get started. Try checking out Funding Opportunities for Postdoctoral Researchers for information on various grants and scholarships. You might also want to take a look at SDC’s site for more information about research funding opportunities throughout Switzerland.
As well, check out SCICORP’s website for information on postdoctoral fellowships offered by Canadian institutions. For further details and assistance with your application, contact one of our regional offices directly: British Columbia (604) 666-2146; Alberta (780) 422-1614; Saskatchewan (306) 787-5606; Manitoba (204) 983-6016; Ontario (416) 979-0053; Quebec (418) 643-2715; New Brunswick (506) 453-4766 or Nova Scotia & Prince Edward Island (902) 564-4544.
How to Apply for a Postdoctoral Researcher Position in Canada
The Government of Canada is the corporation responsible for the federal administration in Canada. It was established at Confederation through the Constitution Act, of 1867 as a federal constitutional monarchy.
Why should apply for this program?
This program will give me a chance to conduct research within excellent research labs or institutions in Canada. Students will get jobs through this Ph.D. position in Canada.
Application Deadline: Open
Eligibility to Apply for a Postdoctoral Researcher Position in Canada
Eligible Countries: Candidates of any nationality are eligible.
Acceptable Course or Subjects: Candidates can apply for a postdoctoral research program at Canadian government laboratories and research institutions.
Admissible Criteria: The application will be accepted if, the aspirants are currently enrolled in a doctoral program at a recognized post-secondary institution. However, candidates must meet the education requirements in order to be appointed to a position.
Candidates who have graduated within the last 3 (three) years with a doctoral degree in the field of natural sciences are eligible to apply.
How to Apply: Participants have to register themselves as postdoctoral research students in Canadian Government Laboratories or research institutions. After that, they can apply for this wonderful opportunity through the online link.
Supporting Documents: You will be required to upload the following mandatory document: Your resumé/CV. Additional optional documents that can be uploaded include- Cover letter; Academic diplomas; Official language results; Certifications; Foreign education credentials assessments; and References. Candidates with foreign credentials (obtained outside of Canada) must provide proof of Canadian equivalency.
Admission Requirements: Successful candidates must have a doctoral degree in the field of natural science.
Language Requirement: You should have a good command of the English language.
Conclusion
The process of finding a job is long and arduous. You will be searching for months before you find something that fits your experience, research, and interests. Be diligent, never give up hope, but most importantly enjoy your journey as you have now begun on one of life’s greatest adventures. I wish you success! Good luck! And don’t forget to take breaks every once in a while. Life’s too short not to enjoy it every once in a while.
