Postdoc: meaning, definitions and examples
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postdoc
[ ˈpoʊstˌdɒk ]
academic position
A postdoc, or postdoctoral researcher, is an individual who has completed their doctoral studies and engages in further academic research. This position typically aims to deepen the individual's expertise in their field, contribute to scholarly work, and potentially prepare for a permanent academic position.
Synonyms
postdoctoral fellow, postdoctoral researcher
Examples of usage
- She secured a postdoc in neuroscience at a prestigious university.
- Many postdocs publish their research findings in academic journals.
- After finishing my PhD, I applied for a postdoc in renewable energy.
- The postdoc experience is often seen as a stepping stone to faculty positions.
Translations
Translations of the word "postdoc" in other languages:
🇵🇹 pós-doutorado
🇮🇳 पोस्टडॉक्टरल
🇩🇪 Postdoc
🇮🇩 pasca-doktor
🇺🇦 постдок
🇵🇱 postdok
🇯🇵 ポスドク
🇫🇷 postdoctorat
🇪🇸 posdoctorado
🇹🇷 doktora sonrası
🇰🇷 박사후 연구원
🇸🇦 ما بعد الدكتوراه
🇨🇿 postdoktorát
🇸🇰 postdoktorát
🇨🇳 博士后
🇸🇮 poddoktorski
🇮🇸 póstdoktors
🇰🇿 постдоктор
🇬🇪 პოსტდოქტორანტურა
🇦🇿 postdoktorantura
🇲🇽 posdoctorado
Word origin
The term 'postdoc' is a short form of 'postdoctoral', which has its roots in the academic structures that emerged in the early 20th century. The concept of a postdoctoral position began to gain traction in the 1920s and 1930s, particularly in research-intensive universities in Europe and the United States. As the academic world evolved, the demand for postdoctoral positions grew, especially during the post-World War II era when funding for scientific research increased. The role of the postdoc became a vital part of the academic career pathway, allowing emerging scholars to gain experience and skills in their field beyond doctoral studies. This period marks a significant shift in academia, as postdocs began to serve as essential contributors to research projects, navigating the transition from graduate education to professional research careers. Over the decades, the role and expectations of postdoctoral researchers have continued to develop, reflecting changes in academic funding, research priorities, and the competitive landscape of higher education.