Distinguishing postdocs from other research staff
In the NSF Grant Database List Assessment, the definitional element ‘temporary status’ was the single best criteria for distinguishing postdocs from non-postdoctoral researchers. ‘Intention to provide training in research’ was the next most significant descriptor.
|
|
Definitional Element |
% of Postdocs
n=72 |
% of Non Postdocs
n=47 |
% Difference b/w Postdocs & Non-Postdocs |
|
Is temporary |
94%
(n=68) |
26%
(n=12) |
69% |
|
Is intended to provide training in research skills |
96%
(n=69) |
45%
(n=21) |
51% |
|
Is for a defined period of time |
96%
(n=69) |
47%
(n=22) |
49% |
|
Requires that you are mentored by a senior scholar |
79%
(n=57) |
32%
(n=15) |
47% |
|
Requires that you are supervised by a senior scholar |
79%
(n=57) |
36%
(n=17) |
43% |
|
Is intended to prepare you for an independent career |
93%
(n=67) |
55%
(n=26) |
38% |
|
Is intended to advance professional skills |
93%
(n=67) |
70%
(n=33) |
23% |
|
Requires that the doctorate was recently awarded |
56%
(n=40) |
33%
(n=15) |
23% |
|
Requires a full-time commitment to research |
90%
(n=65) |
68%
(n=32) |
22% |
|
Requires that you contribute to the program through seminars, lectures, or other teaching responsibilities |
60%
(n=43) |
77%
(n=36) |
-17% |
|
Requires a PhD or an equivalent degree |
100%
(n=72) |
87%
(n=41) |
13% |
|
Requires publication of research in scholarly journals |
94%
(n=68) |
83%
(n=39) |
11% |
|
|