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Benefits Available to Postdocs

Health and Dental Insurance

Postdoctoral Scholars are entitled to a contribution toward health and dental insurance plans that cover either 100% of the UI-Grad Care plan (subscribed to by most University of Iowa graduate students) or the same contribution that is provided to permanent faculty toward available health and dental plans. Payment for the contribution derives from the agency or unit providing your stipend. You may be responsible for any remaining premium(s), including any amount in excess of premium limits imposed by the agency providing your stipend. Questions concerning this latter point should be directed to your faculty advisor or your appointing department.

Optional Insurance Coverage

Postdoctoral Scholars are eligible to participate at the same cost as faculty in certain optional benefits programs, including insurance coverage for vision and hearing. You may obtain descriptions of such coverage options from the University Benefits office.

Disability and Worker’s Compensation

While working as a Postdoctoral Scholar, you will be covered by Worker's Compensation. Since you are not classified as a University employee, you will not be entitled to disability insurance.

Paid Leave

Postdoctoral Scholars at The University of Iowa are entitled to annual paid leave of 15 working days and annual sick leave of 18 working days but do not accrue vacation and are not entitled to vacation pay. The agency supporting a Postdoctoral Fellow may require different policies. The appointing department is responsible for arranging and accounting of leave for Postdoctoral Scholars.

Access to University Facilities and Activities

As a Postdoctoral Scholar, your University identification card will reflect your training status. This status provides extended access to library and information resources and the ability to charge items to your University billing account. This status also provides reduced admission fees for certain University recreational facilities and cultural and athletic events.