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How to write a cover letter for a postdoctoral application

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This post contains an example of a successful cover letter for a postdoctoral application.

Quick takeaways for writing a cover letter
The most important thing to keep in mind when writing a cover letter
Why I applied to only six total postdoc positions

Example of a Successful Cover Letter for a Postdoctoral Application

Dear Professor X,

I am applying for the postdoctoral position available in your laboratory for the Y project. I am currently a Ph.D. candidate in Physics at Ohio State University, advised by Prof. Z. I will be graduating in May of 2018 and available to start this position thereafter. Due to my experience building and deploying the fourth mission of the Antarctic Impulsive Transient Antenna (ANITA-IV), I am well placed to make strong contributions to detector development, testing, calibration, and deployment of the Y mission scheduled for flight in 2020.

Working on the ANITA project for my Ph.D. has given me the opportunity to develop strengths and skills that are transferable and relevant to a long-duration balloon experiment in the particle astrophysics field such as Y. For the ANITA-IV mission, I have played a leading role in the development, testing, and commissioning of new hardware and electronics, ensuring a timely launch during the early onset of the polar vortex and remotely operating mission-critical electronics on the payload during its flight. I was deployed in Antarctica for two months, including a month prior to launch and a month post-launch. I gained experience working in the unique environment of the NASA LDB facility on Ross Island and succeeded in combating the challenges of a balloon experiment.

This postdoctoral position would be an excellent opportunity to contribute to the development and commissioning of silicon detectors which are at the heart of the Y instrument. This is well-aligned with my interest in learning new detection techniques and in making contributions that are critical to the Y project and the physics it is trying to probe. My work on the ANITA-IV instrument led to almost tripling the livetime of the experiment, as described in the pre-print found at https://arxiv.org/abs/1709.04536 and currently under review by Nuclear Instruments and Methods A. I wrote this paper as the corresponding author on behalf of the ANITA collaboration. I would strive to achieve the success of a similar or greater magnitude for the Y project.

Kindly consider my application for this postdoctoral position. Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing back from you at your convenience.

Oindree Banerjee

This cover letter was part of my application for a postdoc position in the Physics department of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). I was selected for an interview and visited MIT on a cold, cold day in the month of February. Good thing the MIT buildings that I ended up in were mostly all connected so I was indoors, albeit the numbering of these buildings made no sense. Oh well, more on that later.

Quick Takeaways for Writing the Cover Letter for a Postdoctoral Application

If you do not know the name of the professor who is hiring then stop right here and find that out! It’s about what you know and who you know. If you don’t know them already, chances are low for getting an interview.
The cover letter should be no more than a few powerful paragraphs. Don’t make any paragraph too big a block of text.
In the very first sentence, you should say what you are writing them for, that is, to apply for a position. Be specific. Say which position with what project.
Then say who you are.
Follow this up with when you will be graduating and when you can start the position.
Finish the first paragraph with a strong statement about why you are more than perfect for the job.
The next paragraph is all about elaborating on why you are perfect for the role. Elaborate away but as succinctly as you can. Any experience you speak about should be relevant to the particular role you are applying for. Keyword: relevant . No one cares about the other stuff you know.
The professor(s) will KNOW if you are just sending them a generic cover letter that you send to every other school just with the school’s name changed. Trust me, they know. It takes work and time to make sure each cover letter is perfect for that particular role.

This is why I applied to only six total postdocs and fellowships!

People thought that was crazy. But I got interviews for ALL but one of them. That is a high success rate for applying to postdocs.

If you are not writing a cover letter specifically for a given role – you should really ask yourself if you even care enough to bother applying for that role. This is what I did and ended up applying to so few places.

The truth is I don’t care about everything and that’s a good thing.

By the time you are applying for postdocs, it is not cute to like everything anymore. You want to be highly skilled, choosy, passionate, opinionated, and annoyingly specific, in order to make a strong case.

For the cover letter sample provided here, I was selling my background in a particle astrophysics balloon-payload experiment in Antarctica to apply for a job doing a different particle astrophysics balloon-payload experiment in Antarctica. The detection methods (RF antennas vs Si(Li) detectors) and science questions (ultra-high-energy neutrinos vs dark matter detection) addressed by each experiment were actually quite distinct from each other, however, there was enough in common between them (broadly, both were in the field of particle astrophysics, both balloon payloads, both in Antarctica) to make a case for the postdoc.

The third paragraph should be like a very short research statement – packed with strong statements about what it is you’d like to do and why the role is well-aligned with your goals. Mention achievements that are, again, relevant to the position.
It is nice to put a big achievement near the end so you are leaving them with a reminder that you are an absolute goddess.
I always end by asking them to kindly consider the application and that I look forward to hearing from them – which is pretty standard.

I outline what happened with each application in my book . There is a story and important lessons associated with each one. I do want to stress here, though, that applying to fewer places helped my case of making strong applications at each place.

You can also read about my experience applying cold and without knowing the hiring team in this post .

Story of a terrible phone screen and the mistake on a cover letter that you cannot afford

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

Cover letter header

Cover letter greeting, cover letter introduction, cover letter closing , writing psychology: one step further.

You wrote a successful dissertation to get your PhD. How hard can it be to write the papers needed to get a postdoc job?

With 125+ cover letter examples and occupation-specific writing guides, Resume.io is here to make an impressive postdoc cover letter easier than you think. This guide, along with our postdoc cover letter examples, will cover these topics:

The best format for structuring a postdoc cover letter
How each cover letter section speaks to your strengths as an ideal postdoc job match: header, greeting, introduction, body and conclusion
Writing psychology to persuade the person making hiring decisions
Common cover letter mistakes to avoid.

Best format for a postdoc cover letter

The simplicity of structuring a postdoc cover letter may seem like a treat when you’re accustomed to writing academic research papers. Like any type of letter, it includes these sections:

Cover letter body

Cover letter closing.

Before taking a closer look at each part to ensure it hits the mark, here are a few general tips. Always assume the PI or search committee recipient is busy with many preoccupations — including other postdoc job applications to weed through. Making that person’s life easier will automatically earn you bonus marks when your cover letter is:

Short — no more 400 words on a single page.
Inviting to read at first glance — neat, clean, streamlined and professionally polished, with ample white space.
Easy to read all the way through — reflecting suitable choices of fonts and sparing graphic touches.

Here is an adaptable postdoc cover letter example that you can customize for the position and hiring organization:

Dear Professor Knightly, Having completed my doctorate in Slavonic Studies last semester, I am applying to continue my Postdoc research in the area of the Old Church Slavonic language. Researching the homeland and language of the Slavs has always been a passion and I have undertaken many translation projects that have contributed to the modern understanding of how language influenced the early Slavonic church in the Moravian Empire. I will be spending much of my Postdoc period in libraries across Eastern Europe, presenting at local symposia and writing my second book on the development of early Proto Slavic and Common Slavonic languages in conjunction with a number of leaders in the field. My travel has mostly been funded by the publishers, but given the considerable expense in my work I am continuing to request the bursary from the university. I teach classes for local students and will continue to lead seminars six times a year on my return trips to Chicago. I enclose my latest research paper for your interest. It has received critical acclaim in over 15 industry publications. After analyzing over 2,000 church manuscripts, it is fascinating to see the evolution. I was proud to receive my doctorate, but the work is just beginning. Understanding the origins of language is helping to unlock the secrets of the early Slav Church – exploring many of the rituals that still hold firm to this day. Sincerely, Simon Bartley

The header of your postdoc cover letter sets you apart from other job candidates in a visually distinctive manner. It also serves the important practical purpose of making your contact information readily available for recruiters to get in touch. In addition to your name, phone number, email and relevant address or location information such as city, include your LinkedIn and possibly other social media or website links. Check out our postdoc cover letter sample for more ideas on creating a great header.

A good match The minimal extra effort it takes to create a visually matched cover letter and resume design — notably in the header — is a worthwhile way to impress recruiters who may be inundated with postdoc application documents.

Goal of the cover letter header: Stand out from scores of other postdoc candidates with a distinctive-looking header that identifies who you are and how recruiters can reach you.

Typically, postdoc cover letters are addressed to a professor, often the principal investigator (PI) for the research position in question. Try to find out who your cover letter recipient will be so you can address that person by name. Check the institution’s website or LinkedIn profiles, or just make a phone call and ask. This traditional cover letter greeting is recommended: “Dear <Dr.> <Mr.> <Ms.> Surname.” Unless you’re confident the workplace culture is informal enough, “Dear” alternatives such as “Hi,” “Hello” or “Greetings” are not a good idea.. If you’re unable to identify any specific recruiter by name, address your letter to “Search Committee Chair” or “Search Team Members.” The ill-advised option “To Whom It May Concern” sounds lazy as well as cold and pompous.

Goal of the cover letter greeting: Start off by directly addressing the postdoc recruiter in a friendly, professional manner.

Dear Professor Knightly,

The introduction is where your postdoc cover letter seeks to intrigue the PI or search team members enough to keep reading and then learn more in your CV.

Ensure the basics are covered somewhere in these two or three opening sentences: the status of your PhD — earned or still in progress — the field and institution, your dissertation title and supervising professor. Strike the most relevant high notes of your academic background in ways that resonate right off the top. A mere synopsis of your brightest research accomplishments does not go far enough. A successful cover letter introduction helps postdoc employers understand your motivation and potential contributions to their research projects. How does this institution stand to benefit from your expertise and enthusiasm? And how compatible are your career goals with the institution’s investigative mission? What about your personality and work style? For recruiters to envision whether you are a good lab team fit, they need evidence of your efforts to learn everything possible about the postdoc role in question. They are interested in the research skills you brought to bear for that purpose, not just for your dissertation.

If your postdoc job application was prompted by a lead from another university professor or someone you and the hiring PI know in common, mention it in your cover letter introduction.

Goal of the cover letter introduction: Appeal to the specific postdoc hiring needs by emphasizing the value you would bring to this research project.

Here’s an introduction idea from our postdoc cover letter sample:

Having completed my doctorate in Slavonic Studies last semester, I am applying to continue my Postdoc research in the area of the Old Church Slavonic language.

The middle section, or body, of your postdoc cover letter substantiates why you belong in this research lab. It’s the place to elaborate on your most directly relatable accomplishments from the recruiter’s standpoint.

Citing facts and figures to illustrate your most impressive investigative findings should come naturally to postdoc job candidates. For added impact, anecdotal accounts also have their place in this cover letter section. Tell a story or two about unique or unexpected outcomes that reflect your curiosity, creativity and determination in pursuing discoveries. Goal of the cover letter body: Build the recruiter’s confidence in your ability to help advance research project goals. This postdoc cover letter sample illustrates what you might include in the middle part:

Researching the homeland and language of the Slavs has always been a passion and I have undertaken many translation projects that have contributed to the modern understanding of how language influenced the early Slavonic church in the Moravian Empire. I will be spending much of my Postdoc period in libraries across Eastern Europe, presenting at local symposia and writing my second book on the development of early Proto Slavic and Common Slavonic languages in conjunction with a number of leaders in the field. My travel has mostly been funded by the publishers, but given the considerable expense in my work I am continuing to request the bursary from the university. I teach classes for local students and will continue to lead seminars six times a year on my return trips to Chicago. I enclose my latest research paper for your interest. It has received critical acclaim in over 15 industry publications. After analyzing over 2,000 church manuscripts, it is fascinating to see the evolution.

The concluding paragraph of your postdoc cover letter is more than just a final formality. Yes, do the courtesy of thanking the PI or search committee members for their time and interest in your application. And remind them why you are an ideal match for this postdoc position, perhaps offering to discuss ideas or otherwise contribute in some specific way. In addition, be sure to include a call to action that puts some onus on the postdoc recruiter to respond. Ask for a phone call or meeting, and even propose a time when this might be possible.

At least express how much you look forward to hearing back.

Finally, close with a professional sign-off: your full name below “Sincerely,” or “Best regards.”

Aim of the cover letter closing: End with a call to action, ideally resulting in an interview.

Below is the closing section of our postdoc cover letter example.

I was proud to receive my doctorate, but the work is just beginning. Understanding the origins of language is helping to unlock the secrets of the early Slav Church – exploring many of the rituals that still hold firm to this day. Sincerely, Simon Bartley

An average postdoc cover letter makes connections between your PhD accomplishments and potential contributions in this postdoc role. An excellent cover letter takes that one persuasive step further by showing you’ve done your homework. Thoroughly research the research project itself and the lab setting, along with the PI, co-investigators and perhaps even their mentors. Review team members’ recent papers to become as familiar with their background as you are with the goals you aspire to help achieve. An exceptional postdoc cover letter also reveals your “why.” Obviously, with a newly acquired PhD, you’re ready for the next academic career stepping stone. But why do you want this postdoc job more than any other? What excites you most and makes you eager to make your mark? Why would the PI and others on the research team consider you an asset and enjoy working with you?

A complimentary remark about the hiring institution’s academic accomplishments could be an interview-winning way to command attention in your cover letter introduction. Implying that your motivation to work in this lab shows long-term promise could also make a difference.

Common cover letter mistakes to avoid

All scholars know how critically important it is to get their writing right, well before submitting a paper for peer review . A postdoc cover letter requires just as much diligence. Make no mistakes that could jeopardize your chances, including any of the following.

Losing full marks for a mass-produced generic cover letter evidently going to multiple employers would serve you right for obvious reasons: failure to research each postdoc position and demonstrate your findings.
Dwelling on your academic background and career goals without giving enough sense of how hiring professors stand to benefit is a job interview deterrent.
If precision, conciseness and clarity are academic writing hallmarks, then meaningless clichés and fluff are the last things recruiters want to see in a postdoc cover letter.
Again, no slack will be cut for any PhD-level document containing typos, spelling mistakes and grammatical goofs.
Design and formatting flaws can be perceived as carelessness, if not disregard for the research institute’s credibility, reputation and image. A professionally-designed cover letter template can help eliminate these errors.

Key takeaways for a postdoc cover letter

Starting with an outstanding cover letter, postdoc job applicants can take advantage of the essential writing skills they’ve relied on in all of their academic pursuits and research endeavors.
Every postdoc cover letter calls for a customized approach reflecting your knowledge of the position and hiring institution. This in itself showcases your research strengths.
To a greater extent than a resume allows, cover letters can shed light on the curiosity, creativity and determination driving your research endeavors.
Check out our postdoc cover letter sample for more ideas on designing a great page layout.

Best of luck at this pivotal postdoc career turning point! For related education cover letter examples and writing guides, check out the following:

Graduate cover letter example
Student cover letter sample
University cover letter sample
Teacher cover letter example
Scholarship cover letter sample
Masters cover letter example

Free professionally designed templates

How to write a killer cover letter for a postdoctoral application

Many graduate students applying for their first postdoctoral positions underestimate the importance of the cover letter. While it may be true that your awesomeness is beautifully outlined on your curriculum vitae, your cover letter often will dictate whether the busy principal investigator puts your application at the top of the heaping pile or into triage.

First impressions are everything for some people, so leave nothing to chance. If you provide only your CV, you aren’t being very personable, and you lose a precious opportunity to highlight some things that make you stand out. On the other hand, a cover letter is also an opportunity to shoot yourself in the foot, so here are a few do’s and don’ts.

A few do's

Start off right. Address your potential future PI properly, as “Dr. (insert surname here).” If you begin your letter with “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern,” your application could be dismissed as generic and untailored for the position. A letter that appears to come off an assembly line is likely to ride directly into the trash bin. If you do not invest the time to learn about the PI and his or her research, then the PI is not likely to invest the time to read your application.

After the salutation, the first statement should be a formality that states why you are writing to the PI. It is important to respect how hectic a day in the life of a PI can be, so get right to the point — something like, “I am applying for the postdoctoral position available in your laboratory that was recently advertised (where).”

In the second paragraph, elaborate on why you should be considered for the postdoc — not just any postdoc, mind you, but this particular postdoc in this particular lab. Yes, it is infinitely easier to use the same cover letter for the dozens of postdoctoral positions for which you are applying, but that is not going to cut it. These uniform letters are easy to detect and usually dismissed as lazy and insincere. If you fail to convince the PI that you are taking the postdoc search seriously, then the PI is not likely to take you seriously. It is essential that you customize your letter, emphasizing how your background is aligned to the PI’s studies and the specifics called for in the advertisement. Consider this the first demonstration to your future PI that you are resourceful and thoughtful — if you fail to do your homework, it does not build confidence that you will be diligent with your project. Equally important to convincing the PI that you have the right stuff is conveying your excitement for learning something special that is studied by his or her lab. Strive to balance what you would give to the lab and what you would gain from it.

In paragraph three, it is time to brag about a few key achievements, such as your most important paper or two, a grant or fellowship, or other notable honors (an award-winning presentation at a conference, for example). You also can briefly mention that you have experience training more junior people if that is the case. But don’t give a laundry list of every minor award — that is why you submit a CV. The cover letter is the trailer, and your CV is the movie.

End your cover letter with the same professionalism you used at the opening. Thank the PI for his or her time and consideration. Be sure to provide your contact information and state that you look forward to hearing from him or her. Everything discussed above should fit onto a single page — 1 ½ pages at most.

A few don'ts

There are a number of important don’ts that apply to cover letters. Things that might seem trivial to you actually can be turnoffs. Use plain email stationary free of distracting backgrounds or pictures. Choose a font that is not too big, not too small, not in color, definitely not comic sans and NOT IN CAPS. A plain, boring font like 12-point Arial or Helvetica is easy on the sore eyes of a PI struggling to read the 87th postdoc application. At midnight. After struggling with an online manuscript submission. I can hear the chorus of nonconformists arguing that unconventional fonts and graphics make their applications stand out. Of course it does, but I contend that it is a gamble to present yourself in this manner. If you have the goods, you don’t need the glam.

Some applicants waste valuable sentences describing how they “deeply admire” the “esteemed” laboratory or how they always dreamed about working with the PI. When the cover letter is heavy on flattery, the applicant usually is light on talent or productivity. If your cover letter contains significant blocks of text copied straight from the advertisement, you may be construed as someone with poor language skills or unable to paraphrase. It should go without saying that spelling and grammatical mistakes are inexcusable and often taken as a sign of laziness and carelessness — two of the worst attributes a scientist could possess. Finally, avoid slang and attempts at humor, and do not end your sentences with an exclamation point!

I hope these tips help you land that perfect postdoctoral position.

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Bill Sullivan is a professor at Indiana University School of Medicine and the author of several books.

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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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Medical Physicist Cover Letter Example

Writing a cover letter for a Medical Physicist role can be a challenge. It requires a unique blend of technical knowledge and professional writing skills. To help you with this task, this guide provides tips on how to craft an effective cover letter, outlining what to include in your letter and how to structure it. Additionally, this guide includes an example cover letter to give you an idea of how it should look. With these resources, you can create a well-written cover letter that will be a strong addition to your job application.

If you didn’t find what you were looking for, be sure to check out our complete library of cover letter examples .

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Medical Physicist Cover Letter Sample

Hiring Manager’s Name Company Name Address

Dear Hiring Manager’s Name,

I am writing to apply for the Medical Physicist position at [Company Name]. With my strong background in the medical physics field, I am confident that I am the perfect person to fulfill this role.

My credentials include a master’s degree in biophysics and more than four years of experience in the medical physics field. Throughout my career, I have demonstrated my ability to develop radiation safety plans and to work with colleagues to ensure that radiation treatments are administered safely and accurately.

I have a comprehensive knowledge of the principles, theories, and techniques of medical physics, including radiation biology and dosimetry. I am also experienced in using software to manage radiation therapies and to track patient treatment outcomes. In addition, I am well- versed in the therapies and treatments used to diagnose and treat cancer and other diseases.

At my current position, I have successfully completed numerous projects that involved the evaluation of radiation treatments and dosimetry. I am also experienced in using quality control tests to guarantee the accuracy of treatments and in creating comprehensive reports to document my findings.

I am confident that I can bring an immense value to the position of Medical Physicist at [Company Name]. I welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss my qualifications in more detail.

[Your Name]

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What should a Medical Physicist cover letter include?

A Medical Physicist cover letter should highlight the applicant’s technical expertise, communication and problem- solving skills, and ability to work in a team environment. It should emphasize the applicant’s knowledge and experience in physics, particularly in the medical field. The cover letter should also include the applicant’s reasons for applying for the position and why they are the best candidate for the job.

A Medical Physicist cover letter should demonstrate the applicant’s understanding of the scope of the job. This includes an understanding of the duties and responsibilities associated with the position. The letter should also show the applicant’s ability to work closely with medical professionals and the medical community.

The cover letter should also point out the applicant’s experience working with medical equipment, software and data collection systems. This experience should include an understanding of the safety and quality assurance measures that must be taken in order to ensure safe and effective use of the medical equipment and systems.

Finally, the Medical Physicist cover letter should explain the applicant’s research background and any related experience they may have. This could include research done in a university setting or in another professional or clinical setting. The letter should also explain the applicant’s motivations for applying to the position and what value they could bring to the company or organization.

Medical Physicist Cover Letter Writing Tips

Writing an effective cover letter for a medical physicist job can make the difference between landing an interview or having your application quickly discarded. A strong cover letter will demonstrate your interest in the job and will showcase your unique skills and experience that make you the right candidate for the position. Here are some tips for writing an impressive medical physicist cover letter:

Highlight your relevant qualifications and experiences: Make sure to include any education, certifications, and professional experiences that are related to the medical physicist job you are applying for.
Demonstrate your enthusiasm and passion for the role: An effective cover letter should be more than a list of your credentials. Make sure to explain why you are passionate about the job and how you can help the organization.
Include concrete examples: To make your cover letter stand out, provide specific examples of your skills and accomplishments. These examples should demonstrate your ability to perform in the role and should be backed up with tangible evidence.
Proofread and edit your letter: Before submitting your cover letter, make sure to thoroughly review it for any typos or errors. Having a typo- free letter will demonstrate your attention to detail and make a good impression on employers.

Following these tips will help you create a cover letter that stands out and increases your chances of getting called for an interview. Good luck!

Common mistakes to avoid when writing Medical Physicist Cover letter

Writing a medical physicist cover letter is a great opportunity to show employers why you are the best fit for their role. However, there are some common mistakes that can prevent you from getting the job. To ensure your cover letter stands out for all the right reasons, we’ve listed some common mistakes to avoid:

Not customizing the letter: Don’t make the mistake of submitting a generic cover letter. You will need to tailor the content of the letter to the specific job that you are applying for. Show the employer how your skills and experience make you the ideal candidate for the job.
Not using the right language: Medical physics is a specialized field, so you will want to use language that is specific to the profession. It’s important to be familiar with industry terminology and make sure your cover letter reflects this.
Leaving out important details: Your cover letter should be concise and to- the- point, but it should also include all the information that is relevant to the job. This includes your qualifications, relevant experience, and any additional skills or knowledge that you can bring to the role.
Failing to proofread: No matter how well written your cover letter is, any mistakes or typos will make a bad impression on the employer. Make sure to double- check your letter for errors and ask someone else to read it through as well.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure your medical physicist cover letter is a standout success. Good luck with your job search!

Key takeaways

Writing an impressive cover letter for a Medical Physicist position is crucial for making a good first impression on potential employers. A good cover letter can help you stand out from the crowd, explain why you are the best candidate for the job, and provide insight into your qualifications and skills. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when writing an effective cover letter for a Medical Physicist role:

Demonstrate your knowledge of the field: Explain your familiarity with the field, demonstrating your understanding of the industry, current trends, and challenges.
Outline your past experience: Highlight any relevant experience you have in the field, such as any previous research or internships you have completed.
Showcase your technical skills: Medical Physicists need to understand advanced physics and be able to use advanced medical technology. Showcase your technical skills by describing the projects you have done or the technology you have worked with.
Discuss your passion for the work: Explain your passion for the work and how you would use it to contribute to the team.
Share your enthusiasm for the position: Show enthusiasm for the position, the company, and the role you are applying for.
Conclude with a call to action: End your cover letter with a call to action, such as asking for an interview or requesting to speak further.

By following these key takeaways when writing your cover letter, you will be able to make a great first impression on potential employers. Good luck with your application!

Frequently Asked Questions

1.how do i write a cover letter for an medical physicist job with no experience.

Writing a cover letter for an Medical Physicist job with no experience can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Start by introducing yourself and expressing your enthusiasm for the position. Then, highlight any applicable qualifications or training you have that could be transferable to the job you’re applying for. If there is no other applicable experience, focus on the skills and qualities you possess that could be beneficial to the role. Finally, wrap up your letter by emphasizing why you’re the ideal candidate for this job.

2.How do I write a cover letter for an Medical Physicist job experience?

When writing a cover letter for an Medical Physicist job with experience, it’s important to include details about the specific roles you’ve had in the field. Talk about the accomplishments you have made in each of these positions, and how they can help you move forward in the role you are applying for. Highlight the specific qualifications that make you an ideal candidate, and what you can bring to the team. Finally, emphasize that you are passionate about the role and excited to learn more about the position.

3.How can I highlight my accomplishments in Medical Physicist cover letter?

The best way to highlight your accomplishments in a Medical Physicist cover letter is to talk about specific successes you have had in the field. Talk about the projects you have completed, awards or certifications you have earned, or any technical skills you possess. Additionally, you can talk about your role in any research initiatives or collaborations that have resulted in positive outcomes. All of these accomplishments can demonstrate the value you can bring to the team and make you an ideal candidate for the job.

4.What is a good cover letter for an Medical Physicist job?

A good cover letter for an Medical Physicist job should emphasize your qualifications and experience in the field. Start by introducing yourself and expressing your interest in the position. Then, highlight any relevant experience you have had, such as specific research projects, awards, or certifications. Finally, demonstrate why you’re the ideal candidate by emphasizing the skills, qualities, and knowledge you possess that make you a perfect fit for the job.

In addition to this, be sure to check out our cover letter templates , cover letter formats , cover letter examples , job description , and career advice pages for more helpful tips and advice.

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Postdoctoral Researcher Cover Letter Sample

Get invited for more job interviews & learn creative tricks to use in your cover letter with our free, easily editable Postdoctoral Researcher cover letter sample. Copy and paste this cover letter example for free or edit it directly using our easy-to-use cover letter creator.

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Postdoctoral Researcher Cover Letter Sample (Full Text Version)

Angela Ellis

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the postdoctoral researcher opportunity as a Doctorate of Environmental Sciences graduate with a strong passion for addressing climate change crises. Currently, I work as a part-time Research Coordinator at the University of Sunnybank’s Office of Biotechnology and Environment, focusing on research that drives environmental and social change. Additionally, I serve as an undergraduate Teaching Assistant in the Department of Environmental Sciences, where I am responsible for instructional planning, grading papers and tests, proctoring labs, and teaching Microbiology and Bioremediation.

My research areas have centered around social and legal aspects of the environment, as well as energy planning and the intricate human-environment relationship. I have contributed to the research and writing of "Chapter 2: Energy Planning" in Erick Miska’s (2017) publication on Environmental and Social Change in the 21st Century. Furthermore, I have conducted fieldwork and interviews with environmental scientists and microbiology experts across Europe for the University of Sunnybank’s Environmental Heritage Report.

With 6 years of research and teaching experience, along with a recent doctorate, Master of Biotechnology, and Bachelor of Environment and Society, I am well-equipped to excel in this role. I have also participated in professional workshops and courses in environmental ethics philosophy.

I have greatly valued my time at the University of Sunnybank and am now seeking a full-time research position to delve deeper into climate change crises alongside a team of experts. I have attached my curriculum vitae for your review and would greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my background and skills align with the needs of your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing next steps.

Milan Šaržík — Certified Professional Résumé Writer

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

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A guide to applying to astro postdocs. Part 2: The application process

by Astrobites | Aug 3, 2022 | Applications , Career Navigation , Guides , Personal Experiences | 0 comments

In Part 1 of this series , we talked about navigating the different kinds of astro postdocs and deciding which ones you want to apply for. Now it’s time to actually apply to the positions on your list!

Important note: Other than this bite, there are many resources for the postdoc application process out there, and we highly recommend you check some of them out!

This website by Dr. Taylor Hutchison is a particularly comprehensive resource (with lots of free-to-use templates!)
This Twitter thread by Floor Broekgaarden is a great compilation of resources (from around the world!)

Applying for postdocs is frequently a full-time job. It’s not unusual for applicants to pause research and other activities to focus on applications for a few months! For US-based postdocs, the first due dates for fellowships are usually in October and most final decisions are made by February—but there are plenty of due dates outside this window, especially for non-US postdocs. One great way to check ahead of time is to consult the archives of the AAS Job Register to give yourself an idea of when annual opportunities tend to be posted and when they are due!

1. Make your list .

See our previous post . Figure out due dates, materials needed (especially recommendation letters), criteria, etc., and find a way to organize all this information. Here’s an example spreadsheet made by an Astrobiter.

2. Ask for rec letters.

You will typically need three rec letters for most (US-based) fellowships. Share your spreadsheet with your rec letter writers! Make sure your letter writers have access to your application materials and know how to submit the letters (will they get an email? do they have to submit through a particular system?).

It can also be helpful to work out some kind of reminder system with your rec letter writers. One way to do this is through a weekly “digest” email; each Monday morning, send them a reminder of all of the letters due that week.
You can also have “letter tracker” spreadsheets, as Dr. Taylor Hutchison did. Check out her templates here .

3. Get information.

Go to info sessions if available. As noted above, some postdocs (especially national fellowships) will have informational webinars with more information about how to apply. Definitely go to these!

You can also reach out to potential PIs, especially if you’re planning to apply for fellowships! Professors pretty much always want a postdoc who can bring external funding to a group, so if you express interest in doing a fellowship to work with them, they will frequently be happy to assist you in putting together applications.

Finally, even if you don’t apply for the NASA Hubble Fellowship, you may want to check out successful Hubble applications from this repository for inspiration on how to structure and format research statements.

4. Look for “job talk” opportunities at other institutions.

These “job talks” are a good way to advertise that you’re on the job market. Here are some places to find job talk opportunities:

Use your network! If former grad students from your program are now postdocs (or faculty) elsewhere, ask if their institutions have some kind of “tea talk” or seminar where you could talk about your thesis work. Ask collaborators, ask people you know from Twitter, get your advisor to ask people they know.
There’s always the option of “cold emailing” folks (i.e., contacting people you don’t already know), like potential PIs or the organizers of seminar series, to ask about talk opportunities. It’s a lot less awkward than you think.
Some places have sign-up forms for folks interested in giving talks (for example, the Carnegie Observatories Lunch Talks and the Harvard CfA Seminar series both do this). Priority is usually given to folks on the job market.

You don’t have to apply to all the places you give job talks! Sometimes it’s helpful just to get the word out that you’re applying (for example, the selection committees for the national fellowships will be made up of folks from lots of institutions). Also, it’s helpful just to practice presenting your research! Make sure you put all job talks on your CV!

And while you’re busy advertising your research, go ahead and make and/or update your website! You can look at current postdocs’ websites for inspiration about how to structure it, but typically you want a section about your research, a CV (often as a downloadable file), a list of publications (it’s usually easiest to link to an ADS library ), and—most importantly—your contact info.

5. Write your applications!

Here, we’ll go through the components of most postdoc applications.

a) Research statement:

This is the single most important part of your application! The main goal of the research statement is to get a reviewer, by the time they reach the end of the statement, to think, “Of course the obvious next step for this person is to come do their postdoc research here! That is the natural arc of their trajectory as a scientist.” Your research statement should involve two main parts (which may be explicitly separated into two different statements, depending on the application):

Previous research: Summarize any previous research, including any relevant research from outside your PhD thesis. It can be uncomfortable, but make sure you hype up your work! Really emphasize the impact of your research, and try to show how it fits into the broader context of astronomy. Don’t spend too much space on the exact details—especially since not all of the reviewers will be in your specific subfield—but do focus on your particular contributions.
Research proposal: Start with the “big picture.” What big astro/physics questions will your proposed research aim to answer? Why does it matter? Then zoom in a bit: how will you, specifically, address those questions within the timescale of your postdoc? What methods will you use? (Again, avoid getting bogged down in too much detail, but include enough to show that you actually know what you’re doing.) Finally, tie in how your previous research has prepared you to do the proposed work, and make sure to specifically discuss how this research fits into the broader goals of the institution: what people will you collaborate with? What tools can the institution offer (telescope/computational time, etc.)?

Some other tips:

Thoughtful formatting can help make your statement easier to read! Informative section headers are useful. You might also consider bolding relevant phrases or sentences.
Definitely include appropriate figures (and informative captions that summarize the takeaway points of those figures)!
If you’re running up on page limits , it can help to creatively format bibliographies (smaller text, two-column or running formats, abbreviated journal titles, etc.) and in-text citations (numbered citations take up less room than text citations). Just make sure that you’re following instructions for fellowship applications (the NSF AAPF, for example, is notorious for strict formatting rules)!
Making a timeline of your proposed research project, like the one shown below, can be a good way to show that you’ve considered how your proposed research can realistically be done within the timeframe of a 1-3 year position.

Hopefully you already have a CV that you’ve been updating. If not, look at examples of other postdocs’/professors’ CVs! There are plenty of LaTeX (or Word, I guess, if that’s what you’re into) templates . Make sure you obey any page limits given in the job ad.

c) List of publications:

Sometimes this is separate from the CV. Important note: remember that N(publications) isn’t everything! You absolutely don’t need to have X first-author pubs to get an amazing postdoc position (where X is any natural number)—and if a selection committee does have some kind of cutoff based on N(pubs), then you probably wouldn’t want to go there anyway.

d) Cover letter:

This is sometimes a required application component.

For a postdoc position, keep your cover letter to 1 page maximum! There are plenty of cover letter templates out there, but here’s some good general advice. In general, think of the cover letter as answering why you are a great fit for the given institution and/or program.

Also: format the letter nicely. Use letterhead from your current institution, and make sure you properly address the letter to whoever is listed as the point of contact on the job ad (although the salutation should probably always be something along the lines of “Dear members of the search committee”).

e) Other statements:

Some applications will ask for other kinds of statements. Here are some thoughts on common types of additional statements:

Personal statement: These sometimes come up for non-astro-specific fellowships. Make sure you address the criteria of the fellowship! If they ask about, e.g., “leadership,” talk about any (research or non-research) collaborations in which you’ve had a leadership role. Mention your career goals and how they align with the goals of the fellowship/institution. Again, it can help to build a narrative about yourself, making it clear that the position you’re applying for is the obvious next step in the narrative.
Diversity statement: For many astronomers, the connections between our research and broader social issues of equity and inclusion are not always direct (although if they are, that’s amazing and you should definitely mention them!). But you can always talk about other ways you have worked to impact communities that are not traditionally served by professional astronomy: science outreach, advocacy for minoritized groups within academic spaces, activism outside academic spaces. Mention how the particular fellowship and/or host institution will help you continue and further advance your work.

6. Edit, edit, edit.

Get other people to read your statements: other grad students, your advisor, your rec letter writers, your potential PIs (if you have a strong relationship with them already). Of course you don’t have to accept all the comments you receive, but your application will be better the more you seriously engage with feedback.

7. Submit! Celebrate your submissions! Then prepare to wait.

For the sake of your mental health, we strongly encourage you to not look at the AstroBetter Rumor Mill while waiting to hear about applications, for a few reasons:

The Rumor Mill is an anonymous crowdsourced list, and may not always be an accurate source of information.
Also, people post on the Rumor Mill about their acceptances without showing the (often far more numerous) rejections, which can produce skewed perspectives of “success.” This can be very bad for your mental health during an already stressful time!

Instead of the Rumor Mill, check your spam folder regularly! Important emails have been known to get caught in spam filters.

And seriously, don’t look at the Rumor Mill. Unless you are actively trying to make a decision about multiple offers, you are extremely unlikely to gain any positive knowledge from the Rumor Mill. You might even want to install a site blocker.

8. Interviews

Many postdocs don’t have an interview stage, but some do. Here are some tips on preparing for interviews:

Prepare a 1-3 minute “elevator pitch” for your research! Avoid jargon; you want to make sure your spiel is comprehensible to folks outside your research area (especially important for non-astro-specific postdocs). You definitely want to emphasize how your research fits into the broader context of astronomy: does it answer any open questions? Why is it interesting for folks who aren’t in your field?
Why this specific [fellowship/institution]?
Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years? What do you want to do after a postdoc?
What research question in your field is of most interest to you? Where do you see your field going in the next few years?
What has been your biggest challenge in your research program, and how have you dealt with it?
What do you consider your most innovative accomplishment to date and why?
Always prepare some questions to ask the interviewers! For example, you may want to ask about research resources, department culture, professional development resources, opportunities for teaching/outreach, etc.

9. Make decisions.

You might start hearing back from places as early as late December (though this is rare), but most postdoc offers start being made in January. Astro postdocs in the US typically ask you to make a decision by February 15 (although non-astro-specific fellowships may not always respect this deadline).

You should absolutely take as much time as you need, but it’s common courtesy to give notification as soon as you’ve made any firm decisions. The earlier you let a place know that you won’t be accepting their offer, the earlier they’ll be able to make an offer to someone else.
If you have an offer, you may be able to negotiate some terms of your offer! You may be able to combine offers and do a joint postdoc between multiple institutions, for example, or maybe you can negotiate for a higher research stipend. Your ability to negotiate will vary, as some positions may be more flexible than others, but it never hurts to ask politely.

Finally, if you don’t get the postdoc offer(s) you wanted, remember: it really isn’t you. So much of this process is effectively a lottery! There are many factors outside of your control—who has funding, which research areas an institution is focusing on, etc.—and at the end of the day, there are multiple qualified applicants for any single position.

The academic job search is grueling and frequently not equitable; while we hope this guide can help, it is entirely possible to do everything “right” and still not get the job you want. Just remember that there are many versions of “success” in (and out of) academia—and many ways to get to your vision of success.

This series was written by Mia de los Reyes and Luna Zagorac, and was edited by Pratik Gandhi, Lina Kimmig, Ishan Misra, and Jenny Calahan.

Featured image credit: modified JWST image of the Carina Nebula (NASA, ESA, CSA, and STScI)

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An image of a doctoral tam (fancy academic hat) superimposed on one of the JWST images of the "Cosmic Cliffs." A thought bubble coming from the nebula includes the text "Don't look at the Rumor Mill, don't look at the Rumor Mill..."

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Research statement for postdoctoral position in theoretical Physics

I am applying for a postdoctoral position in theoretical Physics and they ask for a research statement. I looked it up and it seems some people write this in the format of a letter, in which I say what I have already worked on, what I plan to do next, why my background allows me to do it and how it relates to the group to which I'm applying.

So my questions are:

Should a research statement be written in the form of a letter?
Is the content I outlined the correct content for it?
If I have one ongoing collaboration with one of the group's permanent members, can I mention it?
application

Did you ask for guidance from your graduate and postdoctoral advisors? – A rural reader Commented Jan 15 at 1:43
No, for my current postdoc position there was no such a requirement, so I did not ask my graduate advisor at the time. My postdoctoral supervisor is currently unavailable. – user1620696 Commented Jan 15 at 2:57
"Should a research statement be written in the form of a letter?" I think I have literally never seen a research statement in the form of a letter, i.e. with an address, starting with "Dear [addressee]", with your signature at the end, etc. (I have not served on a postdoc search committee, though.) If I google "theoretical physics research statement pdf", none of the documents are in the form of a letter. Are you sure you are not confusing a research statement and a cover letter? – – Adam Přenosil Commented Jan 15 at 14:14
It would help you to ask some of your postdoc colleagues to share their research statements with you. Seeing a few sample research statements will give you an idea of how to go about writing one. – vyali Commented Jan 26 at 17:10

I think the style is less important than the content, with caveats. My preference would be not the form of a letter, but of a general statement.

The caveat is that is should be easy to read and easy to find the important ideas. Your list of topics seems good. If you are unique in any way that is relevant to the position it might be worth mentioning.

Yes, mentioning collaborations is a good idea. That is true no matter who the collaborators are. The will probably be aware of collaborations with their own members, but you can give the name (and affiliation) without saying literally that it is a member of that group. This makes it easier to reuse (or publish) such a statement. Mention other collaborations that you have as well. Collaboration is a good thing.

Exception. If you are writing to an individual PI who will hire you for a position (as opposed to a hiring committee), then a letter format is pretty appropriate.

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University of Arkansas - Fayetteville

Postdoctoral researcher – chemical engineering.

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Summary of Job Duties:

A postdoctoral researcher will develop and train probabilistic models that reintroduce atomic-level details into coarse-grained models of water, peptides, small molecules, and polymers. Molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations will be performed to generate training data and evaluate models. All results will be disseminated through conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications, with applications of the developed algorithms focusing on charge transport in soft materials. Training in mentorship and leadership will be provided as part of this role.

Regular, reliable, and non-disruptive attendance is an essential job duty, as is the ability to create and maintain collegial, harmonious working relationships with others.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, or related field from an accredited institution of higher education, conferred by the start of employment

Experience with programming in Python

Preferred Qualifications:

Previously conducted research in molecular simulation, peptide self-assembly, or polymeric materials for flexible electronics

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Knowledge of running and analyzing molecular simulations

Knowledge of probabilistic modeling with TensorFlow

Knowledge of GitHub/GitLab and team programming

Additional Information:

This position is renewable annually based on continued need for the position, availability of funding, and satisfactory job performance.

Salary Information:

$55,000-$58,000, commensurate with experience

Required Documents to Apply:

Cover Letter/Letter of Application, Curriculum Vitae

Optional Documents:

Proof of Veteran Status

Recruitment Contact Information:

Michael McAllister, Assistant to the Department Head / Operations Manager, [email protected]

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Site https://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

IMAGES

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How to Write SOP, WRITE UP,COVER LETTER||PHD ADMISSIONS||SAMPLE WRITE UP||SAMPLE SOP||PRADEEP RAWAT
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IIT PHD ADMISISON 2024 || IISER PHD ADMISISON 2024 || LAST DATE TO APPLY || IIT PHD ADMISSION DATE
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