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Population Science Postdoctoral Training Program

Postdoctoral scholars are a vital part of CPC activities, stimulating the pace of work, designing new projects with other trainees as well as with faculty, expanding the breadth of research approaches, and invigorating the intellectual life of the Center. The Population Science postdoctoral program is designed to produce scientists who understand complex population issues and are prepared to become leaders in population health fields.  

The program is structured around a close mentoring relationship between the training faculty and postdoctoral scholars and is customized to fit the goals and interests of both. All postdoctoral scholars participate in a mentored research practicum. Postdocs also join CPC seminars and workshops, present research seminars, and complete training in the responsible conduct of research, professional development, and activities related to the broadening of professional networks. In addition to these requirements, there are optional elements tailored to individual needs and goals, including coursework to acquire additional skills, teaching an undergraduate course to gain experience, and proposal preparation. 

After completing their traineeship, the majority of our postdoctoral scholars accept university faculty positions. Others hold positions in applied research settings. 

Faculty preceptors

Each postdoctoral scholar works closely with a faculty preceptor. Prospective applicants should consult the list of CPC faculty fellows and contact potential sponsors to determine their availability and interest. Once a faculty preceptor has been identified, the applicant should develop a training program in consultation with their proposed mentor that includes collaborative research goals.  

Program requirements

Postdoctoral scholars are expected to: 

  • Report their research each year at CPC’s interdisciplinary workshop 
  • Attend the annual meeting of the Population Association of America 
  • Complete university and NIH required training in the Responsible Code of Research

Scholars may also audit relevant courses at the university with approval of their CPC preceptor(s) and permission of the course instructor.

Eligibility

Postdoctoral scholars must have received their PhD or earned doctoral degree in a population-related field of study before the start date of the traineeship. Applicants are evaluated on their previous research experience and relevance to population research, research productivity, and intellectual diversity. Applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents at the time of appointment.

Stipend and benefits

Population Science Postdoctoral Scholars are supported in a variety of ways, including: 

T32 funded positions provide up to two years of training for postdoctoral fellows and include a stipend and financial support for travel to conferences. T32-funded positions require successful applicants to be US citizens or permanent residents at the time of appointment. Non-US citizens can participate in the training program but cannot receive funds from the T32 grant. 

How to apply

We are currently accepting applications for a T32-funded postdoctoral position, with a preferred start date of Summer 2025. More information and application instructions are available on the UNC Careers website here. Please note that this application also requires you to submit supplementary documents here. Application materials are due by December 18, 2024. Please reach out to the training manager, Margaret Swingler (margaret.swingler@unc.edu), with any questions.

Contact

If you have any questions, contact cpc_tp@unc.edu