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 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  
• To start the appointment request process, reach out to [email protected]

It’s crucial to explore the diverse appointment options for prospective postdoctoral scholars. In all cases, the minimum stipend for a postdoctoral appointment is currently $45,000 annually. However, for Supervisor-Funded Postdocs, additional funds are required to cover pension and benefits. Postdoctoral Scholars can secure funding through faculty members’ grants or funding obtained from external funding agencies. 

Supervisor-Funded Postdoc: 

The postdoctoral scholar is employed and receives a wage or salary from an existing researcher or departmental account. For a full-time postdoctoral scholar, an additional percentage is added to cover benefits and pension (i.e., in 2023, it was 18.64%). 

Externally Funded, Paid Internally Postdoc: 

The postdoctoral scholar receives their salary from an external funding source, but it is administered by Brock University (for example, through a Tri-Agency Fellowship). 

Externally Funded, Paid Externally Postdoc: 

The postdoctoral scholar is not being paid by Brock University or from a grant administered by Brock. Instead, they receive their salary directly from the granting agency. 

Despite the different funding sources, postdoctoral scholars will still have access to 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   

International postdocs will require a work permit to work in Canada. To apply for a work permit, you must have a signed offer of employment with Brock University.  Brock University will provide postdocs with the “Offer of Employment” number which is required to apply for a work permit.  

• For additional information, please visit How to Apply for Work Permits
• Current processing times

Visas   

In addition to your work permit, you will need authorization to enter Canada. When you apply for a work permit, IRCC will issue a temporary resident visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), if you require one. To learn more, please visit the IRCC website.

If you have any questions regarding work permits and/or visas, please contact [email protected] and specify that you are a postdoctoral fellow in your email.

Renewal Process   

International postdocs must hold a valid work permit at all times during their appointment. For more information on extending your work permit and those of your spouse/dependent, please visit the IRCC website. 

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, or by mail. For more information on SIN numbers, you can visit the Brock International website and the Government of Canada website.

​​☐​ Sign your letter of employment 
​​☐​ Activate your Brock email
☐​ Complete payroll and benefits onboarding on Workday (if applicable)
☐​ Brock card: upload your picture and pick up your Brock card
​​☐ ​Ask your supervisor to submit a Security Access Request Form (SARF) if you need card access to lab or office spaces   
☐​ If driving to campus: obtain a parking permit
☐ ​If taking public transportation to campus: obtain a bus pass
☐ ​Review your department’s health and safety policies
☐ ​Complete any necessary lab safety training on Brightspace
☐​ Review Brock’s Research Ethics
☐​ Get familiar with Brock’s campus through the Interactive Campus Map

If you have any questions, reach out to [email protected].

General Health Coverage 

For coverage under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), you are required to register through Service Ontario as soon as you arrive in Ontario. There is no charge for OHIP.  

Additional information can be found by visiting the OHIP website.

Extended Health and Dental Benefits  

Extended health and dental benefit plans provide coverage for services not included in UHIP or OHIP, such as dental care, eye care, prescription drugs, and other health benefits. Your eligibility for these benefits depends on your appointment type. 

• Supervisor-Funded Postdocs: Full-time employees are automatically enrolled for the Brock Extended Health and Dental Plan. For more details, contact [email protected]  
• Externally Funded Postdocs (Paid Internally or Externally): These appointment types have the option to opt-in to the GSA Extended Health and Dental Plan.  
  • Enrolment periods: September 1-30, January 1-31, May 1-31

For more information or to enroll, please contact [email protected]  

Temporary Accommodations (subject to availability) 

Residence 8/Lowenberger Residence Room 

• Temporary accommodation for postdocs is also available through Residence 8 or Lowenberger Residences (subject to availability). These hotel-style suites are temporary (less than 6 days). For more information, please visit the Housing Services website. Stays can be booked through the website. 

Quarry View Room 

• The Quarry view living space is a 2-bedroom unit specialized for global scholars, visiting faculty, and postdoctoral fellows. Each bedroom has a private bathroom, a shared kitchen, and a common area. All utilities plus Wi-Fi are included in the cost. To inquire about booking a Quarry View room, please fill out the availability form, and for any questions, please email [email protected]. Please note that accommodation is not guaranteed and is based on the current availability of eligible units. 

Long-Term Accommodations   

Quarry View Room (on-campus) 

• The Quarry view living space is a 2-bedroom unit specialized for postdoctoral fellows. Each bedroom has a private bathroom, a shared kitchen, and a common area. All utilities plus Wi-Fi are included in the cost. To inquire about booking a Quarry View unit, please fill out the availability form, and for any questions, please email [email protected]. Please note that accommodation is not guaranteed and is based on the current availability of eligible units.  

• Note: if you have a partner/spouse/family, you will need to find off-campus accommodations 

Off-Campus Living (off-campus) 

• Long-term accommodations can also be found in the surrounding St. Catharines and Thorold 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 if it is right for you. If you are new to renting in Canada or in general, it is highly recommended that you contact Brock’s Off-Campus Living to learn about tenant agreements and other supports available.  

Support

• For on-campus accommodation support, visit the Housing Services website or contact [email protected] for help. 

• For off-campus accommodation support, visit the Off-Campus Living website, contact [email protected], or visit in-person at Mackenzie Chown A-204. Off-campus services can provide you with a variety of services, like offering information on tenant agreements and leases, tenant rights, life in the region, and helpful links and resources. Information on childcare and local schools is also available for postdoctoral fellows arriving with dependents. 

Opening a Bank Account 

One of the first steps after arriving in Canada is opening a bank account. Canada’s banking system is secure and efficient, though not always free. Each bank offers different services, so be sure to compare their options to find the best fit for you financial needs.

Major banks in Canada:

• Scotiabank (a branch and ATM are conveniently located on campus)
• Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)
• Bank of Montreal (BMO)
• Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)
• Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD Bank)

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.   

As well, free tax clinics are often available at Brock University through ExperienceBU or the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program.   

Brock International

Brock International hosts immigration information sessions, drop-in sessions, and one-on-one consultations. To view and sign up for their various events, visit their ExperienceBU page. 

Orientation 

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. For more information on fees, visit the Global Scholars website. To book an orientation session, please email [email protected] 

General Health Coverage (for international postdocs)

For coverage under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), you are required to register through Service Ontario as soon as you arrive in Ontario. There is not charge for OHIP.

Additional information can be found by visiting the OHIP website.

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. Whether you’re preparing to instruct your first course or looking to enhance your teaching skills, CPI provides valuable support, including:

• Teaching dossier development
• Workshops
• Brightspace and technology supports
• Communities of Practice (CoP) opportunities
• Curriculum design, course coordination, and lab demonstration guidance

Programs and Certifications:

• Instructional Skills Workshop (ISW)
• Instructor Certificate Program
• Certificate in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (for TAs)

Explore Awards and Grants for sessional instructors and TAs supporting pedagogical innovation.

Join the CPI mailing list to receive newsletters and updates, and sign up for CPI workshops and events through ExperienceBU.

2. Brock’s Mentorship Program

Brock’s Mentorship Program supports professional growth by connecting employees with experienced mentors for guidance and career development. This flexible program helps participants refine career goals, build professional networks, and enhance leadership skills.

Benefits:

• Personalized guidance and goal-setting support
• Expanded professional network and career opportunities
• Improved confidence, decision-making, and work-life balance

3. 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.   

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

1. Foundations in Leadership  

Student Life and Success offers a unique series of interactive leadership workshops designed to help you grow as a leader in any field. These workshops provide practical experience and skill development in a collaborative learning environment.  

The Foundations in Leadership Professional Development Series features four progressive levels, each focusing on key leadership competencies. As you advance, you’ll gain valuable insights, enhance your self-awareness, and earn certifications that recognize your growth.  

• To sign up for upcoming Foundations in Leadership workshops, check out their page on ExperienceBU 

2. Foundations in Management

This program aims to equip participants with the essential skills to lead teams and effectively support the university’s strategic vision. The training consists of a two-day course covering key areas within people management and operational training.

• Visit the Brock Sharepoint for more information

3. 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 Success 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  

4. 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 website for more information.

1. Brock LINC  

The LINC is Brock University’s innovation and entrepreneurship center, designed to support creative thinking, skill development, and business innovation. Whether you’re looking to develop technological skills, explore a creative new idea, or start a business, Brock LINC offers a range of services, programs, and events to help. 

Sign up for the Brock LINC newsletter to receive updates on opportunities and events.

2. VPMI Equipment Suites   

The Validation, Prototyping, and Manufacturing Institute (VPMI) is a collaborative hub connecting Brock researchers and students with industry partners. The VPMI supports bioproducts, bioscience, bioagriculture, and chemical manufacturing sectors in southern Ontario and beyond through: 

• Research and innovation
• Testing and prototyping
• Specialized training

Postdocs have access (at a low cost) to state-of-the-art equipment suites, including:

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

For more information on available equipment, contact [email protected]

1. FGSPA Writing Supports   

The Faculty of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs offers dedicated writing support to help with grant applications, research papers, and other academic writing needs.

• To book an appointment with the Academic Support Specialist, Danielle, click here 

2. Brock Library Research and Publication Support   

The Brock University Library offers extensive resources to support your research and publishing efforts, including:

Library Resources:

• James A. Gibson Library (Main Collection)
• Archives and Special Collections
• Map, Data, and GIS Library
• Makerspace and Digital Scholarship Lab

Publishing Support:

• Digital repository and data management services
• Open access resources and digital scholarship guidance
• Workshops on publishing and research dissemination

Research Support:

• Citation help and research guides
• Specialized support through Makerspace and GIS labs
• Access to a wide range of academic resources

Check out library workshops and events on ExperienceBU.

Need Access? If you don’t have a BrockID or are experiencing issues accessing library resources, visit the Library Help Desk for a temporary ID or email [email protected].