Application Deadline: November 1, 2016
The Earth Institute Postdoctoral Fellowship program provides innovative postdoctoral scholars with the opportunity to build a foundation in one of the core disciplines represented within the Earth Institute (i.e. social, earth, biological, engineering, and health sciences), while at the same time acquiring the breadth of cross-disciplinary expertise needed to address critical issues related to sustainable development. Specific areas of research include food security, energy systems, climate change impacts, poverty reduction, disease, and environmental degradation.
Fellowship Eligibility
- To be eligible for the program, candidates must have received their doctoral degrees (Ph.D., M.D. or J.D.) within five years prior to the start of the appointment.
- All doctoral requirements must be fulfilled and the degree awarded before the start of the fellowship.
- Gaps in employment or studies will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
- The program is open to U.S. and non-U.S. citizens. Columbia University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. Minorities and women are encouraged to apply.
Recommendation Letters
Three (3) recommendation letters are required by November 10th, 2016. Once an application is successfully submitted, the references listed will be contacted via email and provided with instructions on how to submit the letter.NOTE: We strongly recommend informing your references of the request for a letter in advance of submitting your application. We also recommend following up with your references after you have applied to ensure that they have received the information to submit their letter.
Research Proposal Format
Five (5) page maximum; double-spaced; one-inch margins; minimum 11 point standard font.
References are required but not counted toward the 5-page maximum. They should be included in the same document.
The research proposal should address how the proposed work will contribute to the goal of global sustainable development. Proposals may suggest participating in, contributing to, or extending existing multidisciplinary Earth Institute projects. Candidates are also encouraged to develop new, innovative projects that connect Earth Institute expertise.
Brief Personal History Format
Two (2) page maximum, double-spaced; one-inch margins, minimum 11 point standard font. The personal statement should include the following elements based on their relevance to your situation:
· Brief personal introduction and research statement
· Summary of any discussions you have had with potential mentors. Note: endorsement from a faculty member or researcher does not guarantee acceptance into the program.
· Gaps in employment or studies will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
· Prior postdoctoral positions – Columbia University policy only allows a cumulative maximum of 3 years in a postdoctoral position, whether held at or outside of the university. If you have prior postdoc experience, please contact fellows@ei.columbia.edu to discuss your application.
Research Foci and Mentors
Research foci are determined by the fellows themselves. Thus, EI Fellows play an active, independent role in developing their own areas of expertise and research agendas. Candidates are encouraged to review the list of the Earth Institute’s research units and relevant Columbia University and Barnard College departments to see the breadth of potential mentors and collaborators actively engaged in research at the university.
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