postdoc cover letter length

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• How to Apply for a Postdoc

Like any application packet, the postdoc application should present a coherent portrait of you as a potential colleague and postdoc.

The average postdoc application will include some or all of the following materials:

• Job letter/letter of interest
• Curriculum vitae
• Research proposal
• Proposed course
• Statement of participation in campus community

Postdoc Cover Letter

The job letter or letter of interest for a postdoc application is similar to the academic job letter (see the Academic Statements Guide).

The cover letter should be on letterhead of your department or institution, with one inch margins. Font should be Times New Roman, Garamond, or other standard font, at 12pt. If no length guidelines are given, you probably have two sides, but refer to the application instructions.

Following the academic job letter guide, in the second project paragraph, give your detailed research and publication plan for the duration of the postdoc. If the postdoc involves teaching, you will retain a brief teaching paragraph, but you will include a longer discussion of your proposed course. If teaching is not involved, you may choose to include a brief teaching paragraph or not, as seems good to you.

Instead of the “fit” or “tailoring” paragraph, discuss how you will use the postdoc to write and research, and how you will participate in the scholarly community of the campus. Remember that tailoring is key: you must reframe your past work to fit the topic of the postdoc. Be aware that you are being considered solely on how you will be able to fulfil the topic of the postdoc and how you will incorporate that work into your participation in the departmental and campus community.

Research Proposal

The research proposal should be on plain paper, with one inch margins. Font should be Times New Roman, Garamond, or other standard font, at 12pt. If no length guidelines are given, you should assume you have one side.

Your introduction should explicitly cover the importance of your project. Use the remainder of the research proposal to discuss a concrete and attainable timeline and plan of work. Focus on the publication plan for this project, and conclude by discussing how the postdoc fits into your larger research trajectory and career plan.

Course Proposal

The course proposal should be on plain paper, with one inch margins. Font should be Times New Roman, Garamond, or other standard font, at 12pt. If no length guidelines are given, you should assume you have one side.

Propose a course that is neither so general that anyone could teach it, nor so minutely focused that no student will sign up for it. Tailor the course to both your specific research and the topic of the postdoc. Ideally this course should be timely, rigorous, original, and something that no one but you can offer or do justice to. The course proposal instructions may require that you write a title and catalog description, a proposed syllabus, and perhaps a justification. For the proposed syllabus, make sure you are designing the course around the correct number of weeks of term for your target institution. For the justification, be ready to demonstrate the usefulness of the course in terms of filling a gap in the department catalog, or updating a course previously offered.

Statement of Participation

The statement of participation should be on plain paper, with one inch margins. Font should be Times New Roman, Garamond, or other standard font, at 12pt. If no length guidelines are given, you should assume you have one side.

This statement, if required, is intended to demonstrate that you will be active in your department and on campus while you are there, rather than disappearing into your office, locking the door, and writing your book. You will participate in the life of the department and the scholarly community in concrete ways that you outline based on your careful research into your target department and institution. Consider campus programming or initiatives you’d like to contribute to, or faculty you might collaborate with, and indicate your interest in conferences, campus talks, symposia, speaker series etc.

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How to Write a Great Postdoc Cover Letter

While a good cover letter makes an explicit connection between how your past experience will help you succeed in the postdoc position, a great cover letter sparks the PI’s interest and ensures they read your CV. Here are some tips to make sure your cover letter is a great one.

Before you start writing, learn as much as you can about the position and the lab. Do some research on the department’s website and talk to your mentors about the group. It’s also a good idea to take a look at their recent papers to familiarize yourself with the kind of work they do. Once you have a good understanding of the position and group, you can determine which of your qualifications would be most applicable. Be sure to emphasize them in your cover letter.

The Cover Letter Format

A cover letter starts like a formal letter with the date at the top followed by the name and work address of the job poster. This is followed by the salutation. For a postdoc position, you will often be addressing your letter to the PI. However, if it is not clear from the advertisement who the job poster is, you can always address the letter to “members of the search committee).

The Introduction

The opening paragraph should explain why you are writing this letter. Indicate the specific position you are applying for and where you saw it advertised. If another professor at the university or someone the PI knows suggested that you apply for the position, mention it here. Follow it up with a short description of yourself that will allow the reader to place you academically. This could be something like “I am in the final year of my PhD in (field) at (name of university) and will be graduating/defending/finishing in (month). My dissertation is titled (title) and is supervised by Professor (name)”.

The Body Paragraphs

The bulk of your cover letter will be spent demonstrating how you are the right candidate for this postdoc by highlighting your qualifications and showing how they will benefit this specific project. One of the biggest mistakes you make is not tailoring this section to each position you apply for.

In a postdoc cover letter, it is common to dedicate one paragraph to your dissertation or current research project. Summarize your research topic, your key findings or arguments and why they matter to the field.

Now, this next step is important: you must translate your dissertation and previous research to the postdoc project. What expertise will you bring to the project by virtue of your past research that no one else can? Give specific examples that show you understand the proposed projects. Work in reference to you major awards and accomplishments while doing so. Depending on the requirements of the position, it might also be relevant to discuss your teaching experience here. Remember, the theme throughout the body paragraphs should be how your research experience will make this postdoc project successful.

The Final Paragraph

This last paragraph covers some job applicant formalities. In it, you should write that you have attached your CV and other necessary documents in your application. Mention that you look forward to hearing from them and are available to discuss the position further in an interview. Finally, thank them for their consideration before signing off.

Get Feedback

Once you have written your postdoc cover letter, ask your supervisor or a mentor to review it for you. They are likely to have had some experience hiring and will be able to make valuable suggestions from the other side of the table. They can also check that your cover letter is formatted according to the conventions of your field.

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Postdoc Cover Letter Example

Written by Mark DeGrasso

May 4, 2023.

A postdoctoral position is an excellent opportunity for early-career scientists to develop their research skills and make significant contributions to their chosen field. However, before securing a postdoc position, you must write a compelling postdoc cover letter that captures the attention of potential employers. In this article, we will discuss the essential components of an effective postdoc cover letter, common mistakes to avoid, and provide an example to guide you in crafting a cover letter that will help you stand out in the fierce competition.

What Employers Look for In A Postdoc Cover Letter

Postdoctoral positions are highly competitive, and employers receive numerous applications from qualified candidates. A well-written postdoc cover letter can make a significant difference in your chances of getting selected. Employers use postdoc cover letters to assess your qualifications and determine if you are a suitable candidate for the position. To increase your chances of getting selected, it’s essential to identify the needs of your potential employer and tailor your cover letter accordingly.

One of the critical factors that employers look out for in postdoc cover letters is relevant research experience. Employers seek postdocs who are skilled in conducting research and have experience in the field. Highlighting your research experience and how it aligns with the position you are applying for can make you a desirable candidate.

Another essential factor that employers consider is publications. Having one or more scholarly publications to your name is a valuable asset. It shows that you have a track record of producing high-quality research that has been peer-reviewed and published in reputable journals. If you have publications, be sure to mention them in your cover letter and highlight their relevance to the position.

Collaboration is an essential aspect of postdoc research. Employers look for candidates who can work effectively in a team and collaborate with others. Highlighting your ability and experience in collaboration can make you a desirable candidate. Provide examples of collaborative projects you have undertaken and how you contributed to their success.

Finally, employers also look for unique qualifications. Emphasizing your unique skills and experience relevant to the postdoc position can distinguish you from other candidates. If you have specialized skills or experience that aligns with the position, be sure to highlight them in your cover letter.

In conclusion, keeping these factors in mind as you write your postdoc cover letter ensures that you capture your potential employer’s attention and improves your chances of success. Remember to tailor your cover letter to the specific position and employer, highlighting your qualifications and how they align with the job requirements. Good luck!

A postdoctoral position is an exciting opportunity to further your research career and gain valuable experience. As such, it is essential to craft a cover letter that showcases your skills and experiences in a clear and concise manner. In the header section of your cover letter, include your full name, address, phone number, and email address. Additionally, add the date of writing the cover letter to show that you are timely and organized. When addressing your cover letter, it is crucial to avoid using a generic ‘Dear Sir/Madam.’ Instead, research the name of the person who will be reviewing your application, and address them directly. This personal touch shows that you have put in effort and are genuinely interested in the position. In the introduction section, introduce yourself and state the postdoctoral position you are applying for. Keep this section brief, as the body of your cover letter will provide more detail about your qualifications. The body of your cover letter should address the essential components of the postdoc position. For example, if the position requires experience in a specific research technique, highlight your experience in that area. Additionally, highlight any publications, presentations, or awards that demonstrate your research skills. Be sure to connect your skills and experiences to the requirements of the position. In the conclusion section, summarize your main points and express your enthusiasm for the position. This section is your final opportunity to make a strong impression on the hiring committee, so make it count. Finally, end your cover letter with a professional sign-off and your name. Ensure that your formatting is appropriate and that your letter does not exceed two pages. These factors demonstrate your attention to detail and professionalism, which can set you apart from other applicants. In conclusion, crafting a well-organized and professional postdoc cover letter can increase your chances of being selected for an interview. Highlight your skills and experiences, connect them to the requirements of the position, and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity. Good luck!When it comes to applying for a postdoc position, the cover letter is one of the most important documents you’ll submit. It’s your chance to showcase your skills, experience, and passion for the field. However, there are several common mistakes that applicants make that can hurt their chances of getting the job.One of the most common mistakes is not following the instructions provided in the job advertisement. Employers often provide specific guidelines on what they want to see in a cover letter, such as the skills and experiences they’re looking for. If you don’t follow these instructions, you risk coming across as unprofessional or not paying attention to detail.Another mistake is forgetting to address the cover letter to the potential employer. Using a generic salutation such as “To Whom It May Concern” can give the impression that you didn’t take the time to research the company or the person who will be reading your cover letter. It’s important to personalize the letter and make a connection with the reader.Failing to demonstrate compatibility with the postdoc position advertised is another common mistake. Your cover letter should show that you have the skills and experience needed to excel in the position. It’s important to highlight your relevant accomplishments and explain how they make you a good fit for the job.Using too much technical jargon and acronyms is also a mistake that can make your cover letter difficult to read and understand. While it’s important to showcase your knowledge and expertise, it’s equally important to communicate clearly and concisely. Always define technical terms if necessary.Lastly, including information that is not relevant to the postdoc position that you’re applying for is a mistake that can make your cover letter seem unfocused and unprofessional. Stick to the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job and explain how they make you a good fit for the position.By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your cover letter stands out and gains the attention of your potential employer. Remember to personalize the letter, highlight your relevant accomplishments, and communicate clearly and concisely. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream postdoc position.

Final Steps On Writing Your Postdoc Cover Letter

Writing a postdoc cover letter can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be a rewarding experience. As you near the end of the writing process, there are a few final steps you should take to ensure your cover letter is as strong as possible.

First and foremost, it’s important to proofread your cover letter thoroughly. This means checking for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and formatting issues. Even the smallest typo can detract from the overall quality of your letter, so it’s worth taking the time to go over it with a fine-tooth comb.

Once you’ve proofread your cover letter, it’s a good idea to have someone else read it as well. This could be an academic mentor, a colleague, or a career development officer. Getting an outside perspective can help you identify any areas that may need improvement, and can give you valuable feedback on how to make your cover letter even stronger.

When you receive feedback on your cover letter, it’s important to take it seriously and make any necessary changes. This may involve rewording certain sentences, expanding on certain points, or reorganizing the overall structure of your letter. Remember, the goal of your cover letter is to convey your suitability for the postdoc position you’re applying for, so every word and sentence counts.

Finally, before you hit send on your cover letter, take a moment to review the job posting one last time. Make sure you’ve addressed all of the key requirements and qualifications mentioned in the posting, and that you’ve highlighted your relevant skills and experience. By doing so, you’ll increase your chances of standing out from the competition and landing the postdoc position you’ve been dreaming of.

Example Postdoc Cover Letter

Here’s an example postdoc cover letter to help you write your cover letter.

Overall, I believe that my research experience, teaching and mentoring skills, and collaborative nature make me a strong candidate for this position. I am excited about the opportunity to work with your team and contribute to the ongoing research projects in your department. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Postdoc Cover Letter FAQ

Are you looking to apply for a postdoc position? Do you want to make your application stand out from the rest? Here are some frequently asked questions about a postdoc cover letter to help you get started:

What is the purpose of a postdoc cover letter?

A postdoc cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself to your potential employer and showcase your skills and qualifications. It is a critical component of your application that can help you stand out from other candidates. Your cover letter should highlight your achievements, research experience, and your passion for the field.

How long should a postdoc cover letter be?

A postdoc cover letter should be concise and not exceed more than two pages. It is essential to keep your cover letter brief and to the point while still providing enough information to convince the hiring manager that you are the best candidate for the position.

When writing your cover letter, ensure that you use a simple font and spacing to give your cover letter an organized appearance. The hiring manager should be able to read your letter easily without any distractions.

Should I follow up after submitting a postdoc cover letter?

Yes, it’s ok to follow up with an email to check the status of your application. Following up shows that you’re interested and keeps your application at the top of the hiring manager’s mind. However, avoid making multiple follow-up attempts, which can seem pushy and harm your chances.

When following up, make sure to be polite and professional. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration and express your continued interest in the position. This gesture can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the postdoc position.

Can I use the same cover letter for different postdoc positions?

While it may be tempting to use the same cover letter for different postdoc positions, it’s best to tailor your cover letter to the specific job that you are applying for. Employers appreciate when applicants take the time to customize their cover letters to the job advertisement.

Make sure to highlight the skills and experiences that align with the requirements of the position you are seeking. This approach shows the hiring manager that you have taken the time to research the position and that you are genuinely interested in the job.

In conclusion, writing an effective postdoc cover letter requires understanding the essential components, crafting it to fit the job advertisement, and proofreading it to eliminate errors. Follow our recommendations, avoid common mistakes and use our example to guide you in writing an excellent cover letter. With these tips, you can improve your postdoc application and increase your chances of securing the postdoc position you seek in your field.

Remember, your cover letter is your chance to make a great first impression. Take the time to craft a compelling letter that showcases your skills, experience, and passion for the field. Good luck with your postdoc application!

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Postdoc application Germany Tips for a successful postdoc application

The most important element of an application for a postdoctoral position is a cover letter that successfully conveys why the applicant wants to do work in a particular field. This article also provides detailed information about the other requirements in a postdoc application.

The core elements of a postdoc application

The "motivation"/cover letter for a postdoc application, academic curriculum vitae for a postdoc application, further documents for a postdoc application, recognition of foreign degrees in germany.

Postdocs are generally defined as all researchers who have completed their doctorate but who have not yet obtained their habilitation (the qualification in most European countries to become a professor ). They work in research at universities, research institutions or in industry and in many cases are seeking to obtain a habilitation or comparable advanced qualification. Those wishing to apply for an advertised position should include the following documents:

• "motivation"/cover letter
• curriculum vitae
• certificates of academic qualifications
• a list of published work, if applicable
• a sample teaching plan, if applicable
• letters of recommendation, if applicable.

It is also possible that job postings will stipulate the submission of additional documents, including an "exposé", cover letter outlining the applicant’s research proposal or project, or an overview of previous teaching experience. Reading the job listing carefully and strictly adhering to application deadlines is essential . An application submitted even few minutes too late might not be considered.

Submitting a photo along with the CV is a standard practice in German-speaking countries. But equal rights rules should ensure that appearance does not play a role in the selection process, either consciously or unconsciously. Application procedures for a university position are usually only marginally different from those in other fields, such as in business and industry, which do not contain a teaching component.

PostDoc (f|m|non-binary) at Salzburg Research and the Faculty of Digital and Analytical Sciences

PostDoc iPSC-based Lung-on-chip to study viral infections

Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m/x) - Computational Biology

According to Prof. Dr. Hubert Detmer of the German Association of University Professors and Lecturers, the cover letter, known in Germany as the "motivation letter", is the most essential element of the postdoc application. Ideally around two-pages in length , the letter should actively highlight why the candidate is interested in conducting scientific work in that particular field of research and why it should be done at the institution doing the hiring – and why the applicant is the most-suited candidate for the position . At the end of the letter, the applicant should also articulate a vision that is consistent with the corresponding department of the research institution. That vision should outline the research priorities the prospective postdoc would like to pursue if hired for the listed position.

It is also advantageous to tap into one’s network within the department to learn more about the potential employer in advance. Even a phone call to the contact person listed in the job posting can be immensely helpful in terms of obtaining more detailed information about the area of research.

The cover letter should be forward-looking and not just a list of past experiences. The main skills acquired can be covered in a few sentences, with references back to the CV.

Along with the stages of an applicant’s professional career and their specific academic career , including the degrees completed, the most relevant information in the CV of a postdoctoral application are the publications to date and teaching experience amassed in the relevant field . If the lists of publications, teaching and lectures given seem too long for the CV, they can be included as a separate attachment.

It is also important for applicants to include soft skills and other abilities and experience . These can include things like foreign-language skills and professional stays abroad, IT skills, experience in leading working groups or in academic self-administration – participation in examination or selection (appointment) committees, for example. Presentations given at conferences or congresses should also be included in the curriculum vitae. If they do not explicitly demonstrate the applicant’s suitability, then hobbies, leisure activities, etc. are inappropriate in a CV for a postdoc application.

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In general, an applicant’s postdoctoral application should emphasise suitability for the specifics listed in the job posting. The attachment of university diplomas and doctorate degree is generally obligatory. 

Even if not explicitly listed in the call for applicants, sending in additional documents can be beneficial , provided they contain information that is meaningful to the application. A letter of recommendation is only required in some cases, but early in an academic career, it is good to submit such recommendations from doctoral advisers or thesis supervisors , even if it isn’t a prerequisite.

If teaching is part of a postdoc’s duties, it is perfectly reasonable to include a brief teaching plan , even if this is not explicitly required. This should show, more extensively than in the curriculum vitae, the applicant’s past teaching achievements and include evaluations or evidence of advanced teacher training. The applicant can also briefly outline how they might approach the teaching duties described in the call for applications.

When applying from abroad, candidates will need to have their academic degree officially recognised. In most cases, degree recognition is the responsibility of the university or research institution. Candidates submit copies of their degree certificates with their application.

In some cases, the institution might request additional documentation, like certified translations of certificates or transcripts. This can often depend on the country where a candidate studied. Find more information here: Getting a foreign diploma recognised in Germany – requirements and tips .

Related articles

Those interested in pursuing a career in academia after earning their doctorates must navigate their way through the often-uncertain postdoc phase. The following provides an overview of what to expect.

Many postdocs are academic staff working at a university or research institution. Their salary is governed by a collective agreement. How much do they earn?

Which scholarships and funding programmes for foreign postdocs are available in Germany? And under what circumstances are they granted? An overview.

Postdocs need to be highly skilled, ambitious, and flexible. In return, they are frequently offered little more than autonomy in their work. Advantages and disadvantages of the career as a junior researcher in Germany.

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Cover letters for faculty job applications

The cover letter serves as an introduction to your application package and answers the following questions: Who are you? When will you defend your dissertation (if you’re currently ABD)? Why are you interested in applying for this assistant professor position? Why are you interested in this institution? What is your dissertation research about? What are your research plans? What kind of teaching experience do you have? How will you contribute to our department and institution? Why is the school a good fit for you and vice versa? A strong cover letter will be tailored to the institution to which you’re applying. For the humanities and social sciences, it is typically two to three pages long, and for STEM fields, it is typically one to two pages but will vary depending on the specific discipline.

The purpose of a cover letter

Sometimes called a “ letter of intent ” or “ letter of interest “, a cover letter is an introduction to the rest of your job application materials. The purpose of a cover letter is to quickly summarize why you are applying to an organization or for a particular position, and what skills and knowledge you bring that make you the most suitable candidate for that position. The cover letter is often the first impression that a prospective employer will have of you, especially if they do not know you, or have not heard about you from their network of contacts. First impressions count, and so getting your cover letter right is a critical step in your job application process. Like all your job application materials, it may take time and focus to write your cover letters well. You will likely have several drafts before you come up with a final version that clearly articulates your skills and your understanding of the employer and the job requirements.

While your CV briefly states your skills, knowledge, experience, and (most importantly) what you have achieved using your abilities, the cover letter gives you an opportunity to create a narrative that shows the path you have taken in your career or education, emphasizing the skills you’ve used along the way, and explaining why the position you are applying to is the next desirable step on this path.

Timeline: Getting Started with your Cover Letter

Step 1: The first step to writing a good cover letter is to first have a good CV. Your cover letter expands upon some of the information you include within these documents, and describes the role you have played in achieving your academic  goals (i.e., showing how your experiences have made you the best candidate for the position).

Step 2: The next step is to find an open position that interests you. There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all cover letter, as each should be tailored to each job you apply to, but there will certainly be parts of the letter that will stay much the same, and be appropriate for multiple jobs. A 1-3 page cover letter might be the norm when applying for a tenure-track, faculty position, but you need to check with your own department to find out what the norms are in your field.

Step 3: Go through the job ad and carefully note all of the requirements and skills the employer is looking for. Based on your background research of the employer and the people you have spoken to who know about this employer (whether a business or a university department), try to identify the two or three most important skills that the employer is looking for. You should then try to create a cover letter that illustrates that you have these skills and have used them effectively.

When applying for faculty positions, especially those that involve both teaching and research, you will be expected to spend some time in your cover letter talking about your research and goals, as well as your teaching – even though you may have covered these in more detail in your research statement and teaching philosophy documents. How much time you need to spend talking about teaching and research will depend on the nature of the position and your field of study. For some humanities and social sciences applications, you will not be asked for a separate research statement, and this information will need to be integrated into the cover letter. Cover letters for scientific positions will generally be shorter as more (but not all) of the information about research will be covered in the research statement. Academic letters also need to cover everything that non-academic cover letters address, however, because you need to show that you are not only a good academic, but that you are a good person to work with who is committed to working at that particular institution. Make sure that you address the requirements of the position as stated in the job ad. Speak to faculty in your department to get a sense of what is expected in cover letters used in faculty job applications for your discipline. See if any faculty you know have been involved in search committees, and find out what they looked for in cover letters.

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