Applications Invited for UC President’s Postdoctoral Fellowship Program

The University of California is one of the leading public university systems in the world, known for its excellence in research, teaching, and public service. Established in 1984, the UC President’s Postdoctoral Fellowship Program was created to encourage outstanding women and minority PhD recipients to pursue academic careers at UC. Over the years, the program has evolved into a flagship initiative promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within higher education and faculty development.

The University of California’s mission is to advance knowledge across disciplines, foster innovation, and prepare leaders who make a meaningful impact on society. Through this fellowship, UC demonstrates its commitment to creating opportunities for scholars whose research, perspectives, or life experiences broaden and enrich the university’s academic community. Fellows benefit from working with distinguished UC faculty, gaining mentorship, and developing their careers to secure faculty positions across the UC system. This initiative not only strengthens academic excellence but also contributes to more representative and inclusive leadership in academia.

The UC President’s Postdoctoral Fellowship Program provides an opportunity for exceptional scholars holding terminal degrees to engage in advanced research while preparing for future academic careers. The fellowship supports individuals whose research demonstrates innovation, interdisciplinary approaches, or fresh perspectives not currently represented within UC departments. It also prioritises applicants whose life experiences or educational backgrounds help broaden diversity and perspectives in academia.

Fellows are matched with tenured faculty mentors at UC campuses and are expected to contribute to academic life while furthering their research. The program is open to candidates from all disciplines who can demonstrate academic distinction and a strong potential to contribute to UC’s intellectual community. Since its inception, the fellowship has served as a pathway for underrepresented scholars to transition into tenure-track roles, strengthening UC’s mission to lead in inclusive excellence.

The program provides fellows with access to resources, mentorship, and professional development. Successful applicants gain valuable preparation for faculty positions, equipping them with the skills, support, and academic credibility to pursue careers of distinction within and beyond the UC system.