Research Insights
Change in postdoc appointment and termination policies and procedures
In addition to no longer requiring an RIF for grant-funded postdocs, units now have two distinct options for postdoc appointments: defined term and open term.
In response to the change in UGA RIF requirements, the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs has revised its policy and guidelines for postdoc appointments and terminations.
In addition to no longer requiring an RIF for grant-funded postdocs, units now have two distinct options for postdoc appointments: defined term and open term. Faculty/units can choose which best suits their needs based on the nature of the funding available. The defined-term option requires an up-front defined end date and formal continuation letters, and has less notice requirement at the time of separation, while the open-term option does not require a defined end date or formal continuation letters, but requires additional notice at termination (and may be subject to RIF if the position is state funded).
Details of these changes can be found on pages 3 and 4 of the updated UGA Policy for Postdoctoral Appointments, found here. Updated templates for both defined-term and open-term offer letters can be found here and must be used for all new postdoctoral appointments effective April 11, 2022.