Supporting UCT’s postdoctoral research fellows

Dear colleagues

Postdoctoral researcher fellows, commonly referred to as postdocs or PDRFs, are individuals who have obtained their doctoral degrees and are engaged in research and academic training under certain conditions. They are distinct from academic staff and play a crucial role in advancing research and knowledge production within universities.

The importance of postdocs to universities cannot be overstated. They contribute significantly to the research output of universities through their teaching in undergraduate programs, co-supervision of postgraduate candidates (both activities capped at a maximum 12 hours per week) and their research and publishing activities. Their contribution enhances universities' knowledge production capacities, attracts income through subsidies for research outputs and supports the development of postgraduate students. As McConnell et al (2018) emphasised, postdocs are essential components of the academic and scientific workforce, driving innovation and scholarly output.

Despite their critical role, postdocs face challenges such as career instability, lack of recognition and difficulty accessing financial services due to their unique status. They often find themselves in a liminal space, not fully recognised as students or staff members, leading to difficulties in securing housing, credit, or financial stability.

Acknowledging the immense value of this cohort,  the University of Cape Town (UCT) has implemented various initiatives to support and recognise their contributions. These initiatives include:

• Digitising the postdoc enrollment process: This process has been streamlined through digitisation, making it more efficient and user-friendly. This new system, which has been operational since January 2024, simplifies administrative procedures for postdocs allowing them to focus more on their research endeavours. Access the postdoc assessment and admissions process infographic to learn more.
• Provision of advance payments for living expenses: Postdocs are often at a transitional life stage with financial responsibilities and potentially families to support. Providing advances for living expenses, allows them to establish their lives, support their families and address their immediate financial commitments without fellowship payment delays .
• Postdoc focused events: Since 2023, UCT has hosted a series of events tailored specifically for this cohort and there are plans to organise more in the future. These events serve as platforms for networking, collaboration and professional development, fostering a sense of community and support.
• Access to facilities: UCT is working towards ensuring that postdocs have equitable access to university facilities such as libraries and eResearch platforms. This initiative aims to provide postdocs with the necessary resources to enhance their research activities and academic endeavours.
• Establishment of the postdoc hub: A dedicated resource space, known as the Postdoc Hub, designed to provide comprehensive information and support for postdocs has been created. The hub, which will continue to be updated with the goal of becoming more fit-for-purpose, serves as a centralised platform detailing resources, key contacts and other essential information to facilitate the academic journey of postdocs at UCT.

A number of further initiatives are planned for the near future:

• Induction programmes: The intention is to develop induction programmes specifically tailored for postdocs to provide them with the tools, resources and information needed for growth and success in their academic careers. These programmes aim to support postdocs in navigating the university environment and maximising their potential.
• Flexible fellowship payment options: Due to the tax status of postdocs at the University, payments are managed through the PGFO. In addition to equal bi-annual or quarterly payments, the PGFO is exploring alternative options for both postgrads and postdocs to receive their funding. This initiative aims to accommodate the financial requirements of postdocs and enhance their financial stability during their tenure at UCT.
• Communication and recognition: A communication strategy, led by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Internationalisation, highlighting UCT’s commitment to supporting postdocs and enhancing their overall experience at the university is planned. Through this strategy the successes of postdocs will be shared and their value and importance emphasised through the recognition of their contributions to research and academic excellence.

In conclusion, postdoctoral research fellows are indispensable to the academic and research ecosystem at UCT, driving innovation, knowledge production, and research excellence. By addressing the challenges faced by postdocs and enhancing support structures, UCT will continue to build on existing initiatives and support new initiatives to foster a supportive environment that recognises and values the significant contributions of postdocs to academic research and scholarly advancement.

Sincerely

Professor Jeff Murugan
Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Internationalisation

Read previous communications:

• From the UCT Executive
• Campus Announcements