Brock University defines a postdoctoral scholar as one who meets the following criteria: 

• At the commencement of the appointment, the appointee holds a PhD or equivalent (or has provided evidence of the successful completion of all PhD requirements).  

• The appointment is temporary, typically between 1 to 3 years, and not to exceed three years, except by approval from the appropriate Dean and Vice-Provost and Dean of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs.

• The primary focus of the appointment is research or scholarship (although they may take on teaching duties).  

• The appointee works under a faculty supervisor at the University. 

• The appointee is expected to publish and disseminate their research during the term of their appointment. They are also encouraged to pursue professional development opportunities for their future career/research aspirations.  

• Check our available postdoctoral appointments on Brock Careers  
• Reach out to a Faculty member about their postdoctoral availability through their email or the website  

It is important to consider the various appointment possibilities for prospective postdoctoral scholars. In all cases, the minimum stipend for a postdoctoral appointment is currently $45,000 a year; however, for Case A below, additional funds must be added to cover pension and benefits. Postdoctoral Scholars can acquire funding through faculty members’ grants/funding or from funding they obtained through external funding agencies.    

   A. The postdoctoral scholar will receive a salary or wage directly from Brock.  

• In this case, the postdoctoral scholar is hired as an employee and receives a wage or salary from an existing researcher or departmental account.    
• For a full-time postdoctoral scholar, an additional percentage must be added to cover benefits and pension  (eg. 2023 was 18.64%).

 B. The postdoctoral scholar is paid from an external funding source but will have access to grant funding for research activity in an account administered by Brock (e.g., Tri-Agency Fellowship).  

C. The postdoctoral scholar is not being paid by Brock nor from a grant administered by Brock (i.e., the postdoc has their own funding source but can use Brock facilities and resources). 

Outside of a postdoc’s appointment type, there are many external funding opportunities.

Items for discussion 

• Start and end dates of appointment  
• Possibilities of contract extensions 
• Benefits 
• Time off (sick days, vacations) 
• Professional development opportunities and expectations 
• Ability to teach (if interested) 
• Expectations regarding deliverables (publications, working hours etc.) 
• Expected frequency of meeting 

• Once you receive your offer of employment be sure to read it carefully and understand or negotiate aspects of the letter you are unfamiliar or are unhappy with 
• For international postdocs, the conditions of the appointment letter cannot be changed after immigration has been approved (see International Postdoc dropdown below for more information)
• If you have any questions or concerns please contact the FGSPA or the appropriate representative in the Office of People and Culture (previously HR)

• Sign your appointment letter and submit it to your Faculty supervisor or People and Culture representative 

Work Permits   

As postdoctoral scholars are not students, they will require a work permit to work in Canada legally. When the required documentation is collected, work permits can be obtained beforehand (recommended) or issued at a port of entry (if eligible). International postdoctoral scholars awarded a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) can apply for a work permit under the LMIA-Exception Code C44.  

The international postdoctoral scholar must gather the following support documentation to apply for an employer-specific work permit through the IRCC.
Please note that this documentation is required to obtain the necessary work permit to work in Canada. For more detailed information, please review the work permit application process through the IRCC.  

1. Brock employment letter   
2. LMIA-exempt offer of employment Number (this will be sent to the postdoctoral scholar after submission by Brock into the IRCC employer portal)   
3. Employer compliance fee receipt of $230 CAD  

It is highly recommended that postdoctoral scholars planning on entering Canada for their postdoctoral appointment begin their work permit application at least six months before their start date to avoid delays. Current processing times can be estimated through the IRCC Website.    

Visas   

A work permit is not a visa; therefore, you will likely require a valid visitor’s visa or eTA to enter Canada. Information regarding whether you require a visa and how this can be issued can be found here. There are cases where a visitor’s visa will be automatically issued with your work permit, but this is not always the case. To determine whether you require a visa or eTA along with your work permit, please visit the IRCC website.  If you require a work permit extension, ensure that you also apply for a visa/eTA extension.     

Renewal Process   

International postdoctoral scholars must hold a valid work permit at all times during their appointment. International postdoctoral scholars who wish to extend their work permit should do so at least 90 days before the expiry date of their current work permit. For more information on extending your work permit and those of your spouse/dependent, please visit the IRCC website.  

​​☐​Brock Card: upload your picture to pick up your Brock Card  
​​☐​Brock email: contact your People and Culture Representative or Brock admin to obtain your Brock email and ID
☐​For international postdocs, apply for your SIN, OHIP/UHIP, and bank account  
☐​Complete the postdoctoral registration form to receive your VPR grant  
​​☐​Review your department’s health and safety policy   
☐​Overview of supports and services  
☐​Learn how to obtain a parking pass and the various lots on campus through parking 
☐​Get familiar with Brock’s campus through campus maps 
☐​Learn about the various supports available to you through Brock’s Library  
☐​Learn about public transportation in St. Catharines and beyond through YourBus and GoTransit 
☐​Learn how we keep you safe on campus through Campus security 
☐​Check out fitness and programs through Brock Recreation  
☐​Faith and Life at Brock provides both religious and secular opportunities  
☐​Holidays, sick days, vacation days  
☐​Introduce yourself to key people in the department   
☐​Discuss conference protocol   
☐​Discuss working hours  
​​☐Discuss ​lunch and breaks  
​​☐Discuss ​work/office space 

General Health Coverage 
In Ontario, OHIP covers many basic health services including appointments with your doctor, walk-in-clinics, visits to the emergency room, and medical tests and surgeries. Non-Canadian residents with a work permit for at least 6 months are eligible for OHIP. For details on obtaining an OHIP card, please visit the Service Ontario Website. Non-Ontario, but Canadian residents can obtain an OHIP card following a three-month period where in the meantime, their home province Health coverage remains in effect.  

 You must apply for your OHIP coverage at a Service Ontario Center. The closest Service Ontario is at 301 St Paul Street Ground Floor, St. Catharines, ON L2R 7R4. You would have to fill out the OHIP registration form, and bring with you 3 separate documents:  

1. OHIP-eligible immigration status (Your work permit and Employment Letter)
2. A document the proves your residency in Ontario
3. One original document that proves your identity

Note: To obtain your Employment letter, you can email employeeservice@brocku.ca  

  There are cases where international postdocs are not eligible for OHIP coverage. In these cases, international postdocs are required to register for UHIP to cover basic medical expenses. The cost of UHIP through Brock International is $63/month for each month that you are here. General information on UHIP cost and coverage can be found on the Brock International website or through email at uhip@brocku.ca. To enroll in UHIP you will require the following documents. 

1. Passport
2. Passport of any family members you want to enroll
3. Your work permit
4. Your contract letter

Extended Health and Dental Benefits  
Extended Health and dental benefit plans cover services not covered by the UHIP or OHIP plans, including dental, eye care, prescription drug costs and  

other benefits. Your access to extended health and dental coverage depends on your appointment at the University (see appointment types under future postdocs).     

 Appointment Case A postdoctoral scholars: Scholars who are full-time employees are eligible for the Brock Extended Health and Dental Plan. A general overview of the Brock employee benefits package can be found on the Brock Website or through email benefit@brocku.ca.  

Appointment Case B or Case C postdoctoral scholars: Externally funded postdocs are not eligible for Brock employee benefits however there are other ways to obtain extended Health and Dental benefits  

1. The GSA has an extended health and dental plan that you can opt into. This can also be covered by the postdoctoral scholar’s supervisor. It is important to discuss benefits and who is responsible for covering these benefits before an invitation letter is issued.  
2. You can pay into another external benefits provider i.e., Greenshield. 

  The GSA Health and Dental Plan has three enrollment periods which occur from September 1 – 30, January 1 – 30, and May 1 – 30. All plans are valid between September 1 and August 31  and are also valid across Canada. For More Information visit https://brockgsa.ca/ or to Enroll email health@brockgsa.ca.  

NOTE: When emailing GSA please CC postdocs@brocku.ca to confirm your eligibility for the GSA extended health and dental plan. 

Temporary Accommodations 

1. Quarry View Unit  

The Quarry View living space is a 2-bedroom unit specialized for global scholars, visiting faculty, and postdocs. Each bedroom has a private bathroom, a shared kitchen and a common area.  The rental cost is $1,200/month (30-day minimum) based on a $40/day rate. All utilities plus Wi-Fi are included in this cost. To inquire about booking the Quarry view unit, please fill out this availability form, and for any questions, please email housing@brocku.ca. Please note that accommodation is not guaranteed and is based on the current availability of eligible units. 

2. Lowenberger Residences  

Temporary accommodations for postdocs are also available through Lowenberger Residences. These hotel-style suites are temporary (less than 6 days) and cost between $89/night – $179/night depending on the unit booked. For more information, please visit the Lowenberger residence website. Stays can be booked through the residence booking site.  

Long-Term Accommodations  

1. Parkway Lofts   
Postdoctoral Scholars can access various studio apartments through Parkway Lofts located within walking distance of Brock University. This accommodation is fully furnished and includes a kitchenette. It is important to note that leasing cycles for the parkway lofts start in September, and therefore, space is limited if applied for after this period. For more information or to apply, please visit the Parkway Lofts Website or email at office@myparkwaylofts.ca. Please note that accommodation is not guaranteed and is based on the current availability of eligible units.
 

2. St. Catharines and Beyond
Long-term accommodations can also be found in the surrounding St. Catharines area. Rental units can be anything from single bachelor apartments or shared rooms to a full house. Be sure to always view a property and consider other factors such as privacy, distance from the university, and nearby amenities before deciding it is right for you. If you are new to renting in Canada or in general, it is highly recommended that you contact off-campus services to learn about tenant agreements and the other supports available. 

Support
 For on-campus accommodation support, visit the Housing Services website or contact housing@brocku.ca for help with Quarry View and Lowenberger residences. For off-campus accommodation support, visit the off-campus living website, contact ocl@brocku.ca, book a one-on-one appointment, or visit in person at Mackenzie Chown A204. Off-campus services can provide you with a variety of services, like offering information on tenant agreements and lease reviews (within 48 hours), tenant rights, life in the region, and helpful links and resources. Information on childcare and local schools is also available for postdocs arriving with dependents. 

Obtaining a SIN number  
A social insurance number (SIN) is required for anyone who wants to work and be paid in Canada. For international postdocs, a valid work permit is required to confirm your right to work, as well as your passport or other Canadian government-issued ID. You can easily apply for a SIN online, in person at Service Canada, and by mail. For more information on SIN numbers, you can visit the Government of Canada website.  

Opening a bank account 
One of the first things you should do when entering Canada is opening a bank account. The Canadian banking system is effective and secure but not always free. Some banks, however, do offer a free year for newcomers. To open a bank account in Canada, you should first research various banks and the accounts they offer. Once you have chosen, you will need some pieces of identification to open a bank account: a foreign passport, a valid work permit, and your SIN number.   

The five largest banks in Canada are:  

• Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)  
• Bank of Montreal (BMO)  
• Scotiabank*  
• Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)  
• Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD Bank) 

*Note: There is a Scotiabank located on campus in the Thistle Complex.     

 Taxes 
If you are working in Canada temporarily as a non-Canadian, it is important to understand your tax obligations. Your tax obligations are dependent on your residency status in Canada. To find out more about your residency status, please visit the CRA website.   

More information about income taxes can be found on the Niagara-Folk Arts income presentation – 2023. As well, free tax clinics are often available at Brock University through ExperienceBU or the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program.   

 International Events at Brock University 
Brock International hosts many events, including immigration info sessions, drop-in sessions, and one-on-one consultations. To view and sign up for their various events, visit their ExperienceBU page.  \

Orientation through Brock
International postdocs can enroll in the Brock International Orientation session. Postdocs will be provided with a campus tour and presentation that outlines various on- and off-campus resources, including but not limited to transit, health insurance, banking, shopping, and recreation. Postdocs will have available various travel, academic, immigration counselling, and career support. To book an orientation session, please email mpontone@brocku.ca. The session and all resources are included in a one-time fee of $150.

1. Centre for Pedagogical Innovation (CPI)  

The Centre for Pedagogical Innovation (CPI) is committed to fostering a culture of excellence in teaching and learning across Brock University. CPI provides support aimed at developing your teaching and learning skills to instructing your first course.  

• Check out the Awards and Grants related to Pedagogical Innovation for sessional instructors and TAs  
• Teaching Dossier Development, workshops, Brightspace and technology supports, and communities of practices (CoP) opportunities   
• Instructor Certificate Program and Teaching Assistant certificate programs   
• Curriculum design, course coordination and lab demonstration  
• To get on the email list for the CPI newsletter and view previous newsletters, click HERE and sign up for CPI workshops and events through ExperienceBU   

2. Continuing Education – Certificates in education   

Brock University provides a wide range of continuing education and professional programs with flexible learning opportunities to meet your needs.   

• Sign up for the various educational certifications through Brock’s Continuing education program   
• Certificates in Adult Education, Canadian Culture and Education, Aboriginal Adult Education and more   

1. Leadership Development workshops  

Student Life and Success offers several leadership-focused workshops aimed at honing your leadership skills at Brock and beyond. These workshops will enhance the skills necessary to empower leaders across disciplines and situations.   

• To sign up for upcoming Brock leads and foundations in leadership workshops check out their page on ExperienceBU  

  2. Volunteer in the Community  

Getting out into the community is a great way to build leadership and management skills. At Brock Student Life and Success Centre, there are many different avenues, both locally and abroad, to volunteer and add experience to your CV.   

• Visit the Student Life and Succuss website of ExperienceBU to view upcoming volunteer opportunities.   
• To receive up-to-date stories and information on the latest community engagement and volunteer opportunities, subscribe to their bi-weekly newsletters   

3. Human rights and Equity education and workshops  

The Student Justice Centre (SJC) is committed to educating the Brock and Niagara community on Human Rights and Social Justice issues. SJC hosts various free workshops, trainings, and events throughout the school year and summer, allowing many opportunities for everyone to attend, participate, learn and grow. Visit the Human Rights and Equity office for more information.   

1. Brock LINC  

The LINC is Brock University’s innovation and entrepreneurship center, where individuals can learn new skills and support innovative thinking and entrepreneurship. Services, programs, and events are available to develop your technological skills, explore a creative idea, or start a business.   

• If you want to stay up to date, sign up for the Brock LINC newsletter    
• NAVIGATE Program Registration  
• Become a member  

2. VPMI Equipment Suites   

The VPMI is a collaborative hub connecting Brock researchers and students with industry partners. The VPMI supports the bioproducts, bioscience, bioagriculture and chemical manufacturing sectors in southern Ontario and beyond through research and innovation, testing and prototyping, and training. Also available (at low cost) through the VPMI to all postdoctoral scholars are state-of-the-art equipment suites, including access to the following:   

• Materials testing and analysis  
• Mass spectrometry  
• Genetic biomarker and cell process   
• Microscopy  

For more details related to the equipment available through the VPMI, please email postdocs@brocku.ca or VPMI directorvpmi@brocku.ca  

1. FGSPA Wiring Supports   

The Faculty of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs offers a variety of one-on-one and group support and events (with in-person, online, and hybrid options) to help postdocs develop their writing skills.  

• To learn more or to book a session with our writing support specialist, click HERE  

2. Brock Library Research and Publication Support   

The Brock University Library includes the James A. Gibson Library main collection, the Archives and Special Collections, the Map, Data and GIS Library, a Makerspace and Digital Scholarship Lab. The library provides both online and in-person support, such as access to research guides, workshops, and consultations to support your research.  

• Access publishing supports including digital repository and data management supports and workshops as well as information on open access resources and digital scholarship   
• Access research support including citation help and research guides, as well as specialized support through Makerspace and GIS labs   
• Check out current library workshops and events through ExperienceBU   
• If you do not have a BrockID or are having trouble accessing library resources or signups, please visit the library help desk to acquire a temporary ID to access library resources or email libhelp@brocku.ca.