INITIAL LETTER OF APPOINTMENT

(DATE)
NAME
ADDRESS

Dear (insert name):

I am pleased to offer you the position of (insert title: Postdoctoral Researcher, Postdoctoral Fellow, or NRSA Postdoctoral Fellow) with Professor (insert name). Together you will work on (description of projects, responsibilities, and functions).

Your appointment will be for a one year period, beginning (insert date). You will be supported by grants awarded to Professor (enter name) at an annual rate of (insert annual amount), to be paid in accordance with the monthly payroll schedules of the University of Pennsylvania and prorated for the time period worked.

Please review the Policy for Postdoctoral Fellows at the University of Pennsylvania http://www.upenn.edu/almanac/volumes/v57/n01/postdocpolicy.html. I direct your attention, in particular, to the section outlining obligations of postdoctoral fellows. Reappointment will be determined on an annual basis, based on satisfactory performance and the availability of funding. The maximum appointment period for postdoctoral positions is five years.

Information on benefits plans for Postdocs at the University of Pennsylvania can be found at http://www.garnett-powers.com/upenn/index.htm Postdocs are required to participate in these plans. However, if you are currently enrolled in health, dental, or vision insurance plans with coverage at least equivalent to that offered through the University, and wish to continue that coverage, you may choose to waive participation in the University’s programs. Single coverage for you will be supported by grant funds and will not be deducted from your stipend. If you desire family coverage, you will be required to pay the additional premiums. Life insurance is only available for the Postdoc.

As a (insert title: Postdoctoral Researcher, Postdoctoral Fellow, NRSA Postdoctoral Fellow), you will be subject to all applicable University policies, as they may exist from time to time, including the policies and procedures governing Patent and Tangible Research Property http://www.upenn.edu/almanac/volumes/v57/n01/pdf_n01/Patentpolicy.pdf . Please read, sign and return the Participation Agreement which is enclosed with this offer letter.

All postdoctoral personnel must submit documentation to demonstrate eligibility to work in the United States; either proof of U.S. citizenship or possession of a valid visa. For non U.S. citizens, this offer is contingent upon possession of a valid visa. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in compliance with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) policies. Please contact (insert name and contact information for your department liaison) immediately so that any visa issues may be addressed PRIOR to your joining us.

In order for your appointment to be processed, you must also furnish either a copy of your doctoral diploma or a statement from the registrar (or other designated University official) that you have completed all requirements for your advanced degree.

Please sign this offer letter to indicate your acceptance of the terms of your appointment and return it to me by (enter date) with your signed Participation Agreement. I look forward to your coming to the University of Pennsylvania.

Sincerely,

______

Department Chair

I accept this offer as outlined above.

______

Signature Date

Enclosures

List specific enclosures here