March 24, 2017

Accepting applications for Postdoctoral to Faculty Transition Fellowship program

Wayne State University is excited to announce the Postdoctoral to Faculty Transition Fellowship (PFT) program, a major initiative to foster a diverse academic environment by encouraging promising urban disparity scholars to launch their academic careers at WSU.    

Applications are currently being accepted from recent or upcoming Ph.D. graduates as postdoctoral fellows for three-year appointments beginning Sept. 1, 2017 (students who successfully defend their dissertations by Sept. 1 are eligible to apply). 

Successful candidates will receive stipends 20 percent above National Research Service Award levels, plus excellent benefits. They will work with faculty mentors, participate in learning communities and receive funding for national conferences. Fellows who obtain external grants during their postdocs will be considered for Wayne State tenure-track appointments.

“Our goal is to build a pool of early career, urban disparity scholars who will contribute to diversity and bolster academic excellence in keeping with Wayne State's mission and strategic plan,” said President M. Roy Wilson. “This program will help us attract a dynamic group of scholars and provide them with the resources and support needed to transition to tenure-track positions at Wayne State.”

Urban disparity studies span several academic disciplines and generate pivotal knowledge to address inequities specific to urban areas such as Detroit. Topics can include, but are not limited to, medicine and public health, economic and environmental sustainability, housing, transportation and social justice. These studies can be interdisciplinary and collaborative, employing diverse perspectives.

In addition, WSU faculty members are needed to mentor the first cohort of fellows. Mentors will take an active role in helping fellows plan and achieve their research goals, assist fellows in establishing a visible presence in the department, and facilitate opportunities for fellows to participate in national and international research conferences. 

Prospective fellows and faculty mentors can fine more information — including FAQ — and apply online.

For more information, contact Graduate School Dean and Associate Provost for Scientific Training, Workforce Development and Diversity Ambika Mathur at PFT@wayne.edu.

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