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Policy

A Stanford POSTDOCTORAL SCHOLAR is a trainee in residence at Stanford University pursuing advanced studies beyond the doctoral level in preparation for an independent career. Postdoctoral Scholars are appointed for a limited period of time and may participate on Stanford research projects and/or may be supported by external awards or fellowships. In all cases, their appointment at Stanford is for the purpose of advanced studies and training under the mentorship of a Stanford faculty member.

Classification

Postdoctoral Scholars are registered as non-matriculated, non-degree seeking students with the University. The classification of scholars as students, among other things, allows deferment of student loans.

Full-Time Status

Scholars are full-time. Reduction in effort is only permitted in limited and temporary circumstances as described in University Policy, upon approval by the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.

Document Retention Guidelines for Postdoctoral Appointments:

Please follow the document retention guidelines outlined in Research Policy Handbook (RPH) “Record Retention Reference Guide”: https://doresearch.stanford.edu/research-administration/record-retention#-record-retention-reference-guide  Please note:  As non-matriculated trainees in graduate student status receiving stipend or salary, postdoctoral scholar records fall under multiple policies listed in RPH.