cover letter for application of post doc

How to write a killer cover letter for a postdoctoral application

Many graduate students applying for their first postdoctoral positions underestimate the importance of the cover letter. While it may be true that your awesomeness is beautifully outlined on your curriculum vitae, your cover letter often will dictate whether the busy principal investigator puts your application at the top of the heaping pile or into triage.

First impressions are everything for some people, so leave nothing to chance. If you provide only your CV, you aren’t being very personable, and you lose a precious opportunity to highlight some things that make you stand out. On the other hand, a cover letter is also an opportunity to shoot yourself in the foot, so here are a few do’s and don’ts.

A few do's

Start off right. Address your potential future PI properly, as “Dr. (insert surname here).” If you begin your letter with “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern,” your application could be dismissed as generic and untailored for the position. A letter that appears to come off an assembly line is likely to ride directly into the trash bin. If you do not invest the time to learn about the PI and his or her research, then the PI is not likely to invest the time to read your application.

After the salutation, the first statement should be a formality that states why you are writing to the PI. It is important to respect how hectic a day in the life of a PI can be, so get right to the point — something like, “I am applying for the postdoctoral position available in your laboratory that was recently advertised (where).”

The second sentence should specify your current position, place of work and mentor. If you are not immediately available for hire, it is useful to mention when you will be able to start. End the first paragraph with just one or two concise sentences that hint at why you are the ideal candidate for the position — you will expand on these points next.

In the second paragraph, elaborate on why you should be considered for the postdoc — not just any postdoc, mind you, but this particular postdoc in this particular lab. Yes, it is infinitely easier to use the same cover letter for the dozens of postdoctoral positions for which you are applying, but that is not going to cut it. These uniform letters are easy to detect and usually dismissed as lazy and insincere. If you fail to convince the PI that you are taking the postdoc search seriously, then the PI is not likely to take you seriously. It is essential that you customize your letter, emphasizing how your background is aligned to the PI’s studies and the specifics called for in the advertisement. Consider this the first demonstration to your future PI that you are resourceful and thoughtful — if you fail to do your homework, it does not build confidence that you will be diligent with your project. Equally important to convincing the PI that you have the right stuff is conveying your excitement for learning something special that is studied by his or her lab. Strive to balance what you would give to the lab and what you would gain from it.

In paragraph three, it is time to brag about a few key achievements, such as your most important paper or two, a grant or fellowship, or other notable honors (an award-winning presentation at a conference, for example). You also can briefly mention that you have experience training more junior people if that is the case. But don’t give a laundry list of every minor award — that is why you submit a CV. The cover letter is the trailer, and your CV is the movie.

End your cover letter with the same professionalism you used at the opening. Thank the PI for his or her time and consideration. Be sure to provide your contact information and state that you look forward to hearing from him or her. Everything discussed above should fit onto a single page — 1 ½ pages at most.  

A few don'ts

There are a number of important don’ts that apply to cover letters. Things that might seem trivial to you actually can be turnoffs. Use plain email stationary free of distracting backgrounds or pictures. Choose a font that is not too big, not too small, not in color, definitely not comic sans and NOT IN CAPS. A plain, boring font like 12-point Arial or Helvetica is easy on the sore eyes of a PI struggling to read the 87th postdoc application. At midnight. After struggling with an online manuscript submission. I can hear the chorus of nonconformists arguing that unconventional fonts and graphics make their applications stand out. Of course it does, but I contend that it is a gamble to present yourself in this manner. If you have the goods, you don’t need the glam.

Some applicants waste valuable sentences describing how they “deeply admire” the “esteemed” laboratory or how they always dreamed about working with the PI. When the cover letter is heavy on flattery, the applicant usually is light on talent or productivity. If your cover letter contains significant blocks of text copied straight from the advertisement, you may be construed as someone with poor language skills or unable to paraphrase. It should go without saying that spelling and grammatical mistakes are inexcusable and often taken as a sign of laziness and carelessness — two of the worst attributes a scientist could possess. Finally, avoid slang and attempts at humor, and do not end your sentences with an exclamation point!

I hope these tips help you land that perfect postdoctoral position.

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Bill Sullivan is a professor at Indiana University School of Medicine and the author of several books.

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How to Write a Great Postdoc Cover Letter

While a good cover letter makes an explicit connection between how your past experience will help you succeed in the postdoc position, a great cover letter sparks the PI’s interest and ensures they read your CV. Here are some tips to make sure your cover letter is a great one.

Before you start writing, learn as much as you can about the position and the lab. Do some research on the department’s website and talk to your mentors about the group. It’s also a good idea to take a look at their recent papers to familiarize yourself with the kind of work they do. Once you have a good understanding of the position and group, you can determine which of your qualifications would be most applicable. Be sure to emphasize them in your cover letter.

The Cover Letter Format

A cover letter starts like a formal letter with the date at the top followed by the name and work address of the job poster. This is followed by the salutation. For a postdoc position, you will often be addressing your letter to the PI. However, if it is not clear from the advertisement who the job poster is, you can always address the letter to “members of the search committee).

The Introduction

The opening paragraph should explain why you are writing this letter. Indicate the specific position you are applying for and where you saw it advertised. If another professor at the university or someone the PI knows suggested that you apply for the position, mention it here. Follow it up with a short description of yourself that will allow the reader to place you academically. This could be something like “I am in the final year of my PhD in (field) at (name of university) and will be graduating/defending/finishing in (month). My dissertation is titled (title) and is supervised by Professor (name)”.

The Body Paragraphs

The bulk of your cover letter will be spent demonstrating how you are the right candidate for this postdoc by highlighting your qualifications and showing how they will benefit this specific project. One of the biggest mistakes you make is not tailoring this section to each position you apply for.

In a postdoc cover letter, it is common to dedicate one paragraph to your dissertation or current research project. Summarize your research topic, your key findings or arguments and why they matter to the field.

Now, this next step is important: you must translate your dissertation and previous research to the postdoc project. What expertise will you bring to the project by virtue of your past research that no one else can? Give specific examples that show you understand the proposed projects. Work in reference to you major awards and accomplishments while doing so. Depending on the requirements of the position, it might also be relevant to discuss your teaching experience here. Remember, the theme throughout the body paragraphs should be how your research experience will make this postdoc project successful.

The Final Paragraph

This last paragraph covers some job applicant formalities. In it, you should write that you have attached your CV and other necessary documents in your application. Mention that you look forward to hearing from them and are available to discuss the position further in an interview. Finally, thank them for their consideration before signing off.

Get Feedback

Once you have written your postdoc cover letter, ask your supervisor or a mentor to review it for you. They are likely to have had some experience hiring and will be able to make valuable suggestions from the other side of the table. They can also check that your cover letter is formatted according to the conventions of your field.

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Job-search and other career-related letters are as important as resumes in conveying your value to employers. You can demonstrate good writing skills as well as courtesy and professionalism. Letters enable you to introduce yourself, state your career interests, and  highlight your strengths. There are several types of letters that you’ll need to develop.

Informational Interview Letters

Sample informational interview letter, cover letters and letters of inquiry, sample letter of inquiry, letters of application, sample letter of application, follow-up letters and thank-you letters, sample thank-you letter, offer-acceptance letters, offer-decline letters, guidelines for writing letters, email etiquette.

• Letter Don’ts

Write to a professional working in a career field to request an informational interview, in person or by phone, to learn about the person’s work.

• Make it clear that you are seeking information, not applying for a position.
• State how you identified the person, what you would like to learn, and when/how long you would like to meet or talk with them.
• See Networking to learn more about talking with professionals.

128 State Street Ithaca, NY 14850 April 20, 2010

Mr. James Ingraham, Associate Director Virginia Small Business Commission 3190 West Canton Street Richmond, VA 26811

Dear Mr. Ingraham:

After reading the article in the March 26 Wall Street Journal featuring your work with the Virginia Small Business Commission, I am interested in learning more about your experiences in retail development. I am currently a postdoc at Cornell University and am seeking information about retail and warehouse management, particularly for businesses in rural communities. I would appreciate hearing your assessment of where the industry is headed and where you think job opportunities will develop. Any suggestions for how to prepare to enter this field, both in terms of experience and course work, would be very helpful.

I will contact your office in a week to discuss the possibility of scheduling a twenty- to thirty-minute appointment. I have noted that you have registered with the Cornell Career Contact Network and would be happy to communicate through the Network if you prefer. Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to talking with you.

(SIGNATURE) Heather O’Hara

Explore employment possibilities at an organization through an inquiry letter.

• Target the organization’s hiring needs by learning about jobs for which you may be qualified.
• Visit the website and/or call the organization to obtain information.

211 Dryden Road Ithaca, NY 14850 February 21, 2010

Mr. Carl Whitaker, Director Federal Reserve Bank of New York 33 Liberty Street New York, NY 10045

Dear Mr. Whitaker:

After studying and conducting research for my Ph.D. in economic theory, I have a strong desire to apply what I have learned in a practical setting, working with data and analyzing economic phenomena. Reading the Federal Reserve System: Purposes and Functions , I was struck by the broad array of functions carried out by the Federal Reserve, the significant role it plays in both the money and financial markets, and the influence it exerts on the economy as a whole. I would value the opportunity to work as a researcher alongside some of the best people in the field for the Federal Reserve. With additional significant course work in mathematics and experience using statistical packages such as SAS and Data Desk, I believe I have the academic background necessary to do excellent work as an economics researcher.

As reflected in the enclosed resume, my academic and work experience have helped me develop skills that should be useful in any research setting. Writing articles for economic journals, such as on the West’s response to the crisis in Eastern Europe, taught me to research extensively, analyze my findings, and communicate my conclusions clearly.

I look forward to speaking with you and learning more about the Federal Reserve. I believe that with my strong background in economics and my experience as a researcher, I would make a valuable contribution to your organization. I will call you next week to see if it would be possible to arrange an interview.

Yours truly,

(SIGNATURE) (Ms.) Tomika Kim

Write to a prospective employer about a specific job you have seen advertised or have identified through networking.

• Motivate employers to read your resume through a well-written cover letter.
• Encourage employers to interview you by reading your cover letter and resume.

321 Linden Avenue Ithaca, New York 14850 January 10, 2010

Mary Smith, Outreach Director People for a Livable Planet 40 West 20th Street, 9th Floor New York, New York 10011

Dear Ms. Smith:

A natural resources Ph.D student at Cornell University, I have focused my studies on the connections between agricultural, environmental, and economic sustainability. The efforts of People for a Livable Planet to promote consumer choices that are ecologically sustainable and thus conserve natural resources are of great interest to me. I would therefore like to be considered for the consumer outreach and marketing specialist position advertised in Nonprofit Times . I enclose my resume for your consideration.

Through volunteer activities, I have promoted sustainable agriculture and environmental issues. As president of the Cornell Greens, I organized meetings, workshops, rallies, and Earth Day activities for the Cornell campus, and also established an environmental educational curriculum for an after-school program. Last year, I helped found the Student Garden Group to introduce organic gardening to Cornell students and promote local agriculture to the Ithaca community. We ran produce stands at apartment complexes for economically disadvantaged families and senior citizens, and expanded Cornell Cooperative Extension to develop outreach programs.

A confident public speaker, I have participated in a training course for peer counselors, completed a course in oral communication, spoken at rallies and festivals, and worked as an educator in a variety of teaching situations.

I am eager to apply my knowledge and experience to an educational advocacy organization when I graduate in May. I will call you next week to schedule a time to discuss my interest in increasing public awareness about ecological agriculture and environmental conservation at People for a Livable Planet. Thank you for your consideration.

(SIGNATURE) Jessica Jones

Thank interviewers for meeting with you following information or job interviews.

• Reiterate your interest in the field or the position, and recall aspects of the interview that were especially enlightening.
• Speak with a career advisor if you have concerns about sending an email, a handwritten note, or a more formal letter, and whom to write to if you spoke with more than one person.

125 College Avenue Ithaca, New York 14850 May 15, 2010

Julie Blair, Vice President Reed Putnam Investments 30 Wall Street, 17th Floor New York, New York 10022

Dear Ms. Blair:

I thoroughly enjoyed meeting with you and your staff yesterday when I interviewed for the financial analyst position. The discussions were highly informative, and I was impressed with the planned addition of a mentoring component to the training program. This is precisely the kind of training program I am seeking.

My visit strengthened my interest in the financial analyst position and my enthusiasm for working at Reed Putnam. I believe that my master’s in economics, my leadership position in the graduate student business association, and an internship with Davidson Sack last summer have prepared me to make a significant contribution.

As you requested, I am enclosing a summary of the research project I completed in a course in financial economics. Please do not hesitate to call me at (607) 555-1824 if I can provide additional information. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Thank you again for your time and the courtesy you extended to me.

Sincerely yours,

(SIGNATURE) Wayne Duffield

Enclosure: Research Project Summary

Respond to the employer to express your pleasure at receiving the offer.

• Confirm the terms and conditions of your employment, including salary, start date, benefits, etc.
• Request a written confirmation of the detailed offer if you have not received one.

Decline an offer of employment once you have decided to take another position.

• Thank the employer for the offer and for the opportunity to interview.
• State that your decision is based on careful consideration of your current interests and goals.
• Pave the way for future opportunities with the employer and networking with individuals you met there through a cordial decline letter.

Prepare well-written career-related letters. For more information and guidance, see Sample Letter of Application above.

• Describe how your qualifications meet the employer’s hiring needs.
• Convey that you are informed about the organization and enthusiastic about the position.
• Learn the name and title of the person responsible for hiring in the department of interest; address your letter to that person.
• Demonstrate your competency in communicating.
• Refer in your opening sentences to a personal or professional contact who has directed you to the organization, if applicable.

If you decide to correspond with employers via email, follow these guidelines.

• Introduce yourself early in the message and state your reason for writing.
• Include your cover letter as well as resume in the body of the message since employers may not be able to open attachments.
• Keep the tone of your message professional and positive, and proofread your message carefully.
• Delete distractions at the bottom of your messages, such as annoying or cute signatures, standard quotes, etc.
• Use standard business-letter format and generous margins.
• Limit letter to 3–4 short paragraphs.
• Single-space paragraphs and double-space between paragraphs.
• Address the individual by name and use his/her appropriate title.
• Use the person’s full name (e.g. “Dear Pat Smith”) if you don’t know his/her gender.
• Attract attention with a strong first paragraph.
• Refer to your enclosed resume.
• Use specific examples to document skills, experience, and accomplishments.
• Highlight and expand upon the most relevant information in your resume.
• Emphasize what you can do for the employer, not what you hope to gain.
• Keep the tone positive, natural, and professional. Be persuasive.
• Make sure grammar and sentence structure are correct.
• Have someone proofread letters to make sure they are error-free.
• Use good quality bond paper and envelopes in white, ivory, or light gray.
• Sign letters.
• Keep copies of your letters.

Letter Don’ts

• Use the passive voice.
• Include extraneous information.
• Reiterate verbatim what’s in your resume.
• Point out weaknesses or lack of experience.
• Begin too many sentences and paragraphs with “I.”
• Use jargon or excessive wordiness.
• Exceed one page.
• Copy exact wording from letter examples in this web guide.
• Assume spellcheck will identify all errors.

Clinical psychology

• Anxiety disorders
• Feeding and eating disorders
• Mood disorders
• Neuro-developmental disorders
• Personality disorders
• Affirmations
• Cover Letters
• Relationships
• Resignation & Leave letters

Psychotherapy

Personality.

Table of Contents

Cover letter for a postdoc (5 samples)

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The Optimistminds editorial team is made up of psychologists, psychiatrists and mental health professionals. Each article is written by a team member with exposure to and experience in the subject matter.  The article then gets reviewed by a more senior editorial member. This is someone with extensive knowledge of the subject matter and highly cited published material.

This blog post will show samples of “cover letters for a postdoc.”

Samples of postdoc cover letters

To get a postdoc position, you need a well-written cover letter that showcases your passion for and dedication to the industry. When writing a postdoc cover letter, these are some of the essential things to include in your letter:

• Address the employer with a formal salutation. For example, “Dear/Hello (name of the recipient or hiring manager).”
• The next step is to state the position you are applying for and how you found the opening. 
• Write a short sentence about why you’re interested in the position.
• State your skills and work experience; ensure they are similar to the job position. When stating your skills, provide the accomplishment you have achieved. 
• Conclude your letter with a forward-looking statement. For example, “I look forward to discussing the position further.”

“01/06/2021

Dr. Harold Bergman

Enteny University

113 Sunnyside Circle

Enteny, Illinois, 60002

Dear Dr. Bergman,

I am writing to express my sincere interest in Enteny University’s open postdoc laboratory position. I would love to pursue my postdoctoral studies as a member of your team. I am a recent graduate of Bertrum University where I gave my presentation on hydrogen fuel cell viability. You may remember Juan Sosa mentioning my interest in your laboratory at the end of the last school year.

In my research, I focused on developing hydrogen fuel cell delivery and storage solutions focusing specifically on portable applications for military use. In my doctoral studies, I worked to develop charging and backup systems for portable electronic devices (PEDs). Current military operations cannot effectively use fuel alternatives because emergency and frequent charging solutions remain unavailable. Most of my work has revolved around alternative energy-harnessing systems and long-lasting batteries. In my work, I produced fuel cells less susceptible to environmental degradation factors and extreme temperatures. I look forward to continuing my research and working toward miniaturizing fuel cells to improve their PED compatibility as a member of your research team.

I would appreciate the opportunity to continue my research in your laboratory and pursue a long-term future with Enteny University. I believe the nature of my research relates to your lab because, as the leading institution in fuel cell research, my chosen field of study is extremely relevant to your efforts. I think my knowledge and experience surrounding PEDs and battery longevity could aid in your research.

I am a self-motivated, independent researcher with eight years of experience. As a detail-oriented, qualified and creative candidate, I feel my fuel-cell research, grant proposal writing and tutoring experience could be a major asset to your laboratory. I’ve attached my CV and would be very interested in setting up a time to further discuss my skills and qualifications with you. Please let me know if you have questions and I look forward to hearing from you.

Harriet Browne”

“[Today’s Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name]

[123 Company Address]

[Company City, State xxxxx]

[(xxx)-xxx-xxxx]

[[email protected]]

Dear [Dr./Mr./Ms./Mx.] [Hiring Manager’s Last Name],

I am writing to express my interest in a postdoctoral position in your lab. I am a PhD Candidate in the Andrew Dwyer lab at James Hill University expecting to graduate in June 2022. My graduate work, published in Science this year, investigated the RNA virome in various aquatic environments using metagenomic analysis. My future research goals are to apply my computational skills and develop my skills working with non-human primate models to better understand and design therapeutics against pathogenic viruses. I believe my strong background in virus biology, library preparation, and next-generation sequencing analysis make me an ideal candidate to study respiratory disease viruses in your lab.

In my thesis lab, we use viral evolution to find trends that unite eukaryotic disease viruses. However, our current picture of RNA virus taxonomy is still incomplete, with the five-clade organization largely informed by human and agricultural animal and plant studies.

Therefore, to refine and complete our understanding of the global RNA virome, I sampled multiple complex aquatic environments and performed metagenome analysis. Confirming that the five-phyla classification based on RdRP sequence comparisons holds true, my analysis nearly tripled the number of currently known RNA viruses.

Host assignments proved to be tricky during my thesis. But I tackled this problem through various methods, including developing machine learning algorithms and comparing RNA viruses to size-separated microbial preparations subjected to DNA and RNA sequencing. I am continuing to characterize the novel and more highly divergent RdRPs discovered by our sampling. Also I mentor one graduate and one undergraduate student with their independent projects drawn from my work.

While I have focused primarily on RNA virus ecology and evolution during my graduate work, I am comfortable extending my research to studying RNA viruses in human disease. I collaborated with Dr. Henry Fields on a publication, currently under review at Frontiers in Immunology, studying rhesus macaque responses to MERS-CoV. The skills I learned through our collaboration, as well as from electives and literature search in immunology and human virology, have prepared me well to transition from studying viruses to studying virus-host interactions. Additionally, I look forward to applying my computational skills toward single-cell sequencing analysis examining the effects of age, diet fat content, and viral strain on primate responses to SARS-CoV-2 challenges, building on the methods and results in your recent Cell Reports Medicine paper. I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to talk with you more about my fit in your lab. Thank you for your time and consideration.

“Anshu Mahajan

Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

+91 84 90184020

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/anshu.mahajan

Pondicherry, 10.01.2022

Kajol Samra

Head of the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Pondicherry University

Chinna Kalapet

Kalapet, Puducherry

Dear Ms. Samra,

As an alumnus of Pondicherry University, I was thrilled to learn about the Post-Doctoral Fellow position available at the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology. During my PhD studies at Pondicherry University, I researched the relationship between circadian regulation and neurodegenerative diseases and wrote my doctoral thesis “Circadian activity and memory performance in Alzheimer’s patients” under the supervision of professor Qadim Ray. Seeing that Pondicherry University hopes to move to the forefront of neurodegenerative disease research with a new team led by professor Abbas Sengupta, I believe that my analytical skills and academic experience could be a great asset to this programme.

The fellowship offer mentions you’re looking for candidates skilled in the areas of lab management, cytometry for apoptosis detection, and data collection. I am happy to say that I possess all of those qualities:

• Lab management: During my PhD research, I collaborated with fellow doctoral students to create a lab maintenance plan, which included up-to-date information on equipment booking, planned activities, instrument inventory, scheduling details, and a list of consumables and chemical supplies for restocking. By implementing this system, we were able to reduce the instances of conflicting activities by 67% within two months, and we maintained a stock of consumables and chemical supplies 88% of the time.
• Cytometry for apoptosis detection: I am familiar with various methods of apoptosis detection, having conducted flow cytometry to detect changes appearing in organelles, monitor activation of caspase 3, oversee changes to the plasma membrane, and changes in the nuclear DNA, using cells at a concentration of 1×106 cells/ml.
• Data collection: For my doctoral thesis, I have conducted 74 detailed interviews with Alzheimer’s patients, covering their current memory-related symptoms, overall health, family history, and sleeping habits. I have compared this information with data gathered using sleep trackers that collected information about sleep cycles. Instead of paper copies, I have used Excel spreadsheets and Cloud solutions for storing information, which helped to speed up the process of pulling up specific data by 89%.

What makes me particularly interested in your post-doctorate fellowship program is the chance to continue my research. Having worked with Alzheimer’s patients, I have seen first-hand how this disease influences the quality of life of not just the patients themselves, but also their loved ones. I believe that working together with other researchers under the guidance of professor Abbas Sengupta can lead to significant discoveries in the nature of neurodegenerative diseases. Recently, I have observed how another team of researchers at Pondicherry University achieved a major breakthrough in the study of endosome function and dysfunction. I believe that professor Sengupta’s team can replicate this success and lead to a better understanding of diseases that afflict over 50 million people worldwide.

I can’t wait to discuss my ideas for managing data gathered by professor Sengupta’s team and for introducing changes to laboratory procedures to create a smooth workflow. Could we schedule a meeting next week to discuss how my research experience can contribute to this project?

Anshu Mahajan

linkedin.com/in/anshu.mahajan”

“Dear Professor Knightly,

Having completed my doctorate in Slavonic Studies last semester, I am applying to continue my Postdoc research in the area of the Old Church Slavonic language.

Researching the homeland and language of the Slavs has always been a passion and I have undertaken many translation projects that have contributed to the modern understanding of how language influenced the early Slavonic church in the Moravian Empire.

I will be spending much of my Postdoc period in libraries across Eastern Europe, presenting at local symposia and writing my second book on the development of early Proto Slavic and Common Slavonic languages in conjunction with a number of leaders in the field. My travel has mostly been funded by the publishers, but given the considerable expense in my work I am continuing to request the bursary from the university.

I teach classes for local students and will continue to lead seminars six times a year on my return trips to Chicago. I enclose my latest research paper for your interest. It has received critical acclaim in over 15 industry publications. After analyzing over 2,000 church manuscripts, it is fascinating to see the evolution.

I was proud to receive my doctorate, but the work is just beginning. Understanding the origins of language is helping to unlock the secrets of the early Slav Church – exploring many of the rituals that still hold firm to this day.

Simon Bartley”

“New Haven, June 26, 2020

Professor B. Hawthorne

Faculty Search Committee

Stanford University

Stanford, CA 94305

Dear Professor Hawthorne,

I am writing to apply for the position of Postdoctoral Researcher at Stanford. I am completing my PhD in Clinical Psychology and Criminology at Yale University under the direction of Professor Mark Fisher with an expected graduation date of May 2021.

Within my research, I have focused on a multidisciplinary approach to examining the nature of self harm and how social support networks affect the likelihood of self-harm being fatal. The thesis ‘Cry for Help: Non-Suicidal Self-Harm Characteristics’ takes 128 participants aged 15-39, 50% male and 50% female. Analyzing quantitative statistical data on the angle and depth of NSSH, the comparison versus factors such as time of contact with therapist, standardized family awareness of issues, number of social support network points as well as self-reported severity of suicidal ideation found the following.

It was found that severity of suicidal ideation didn’t reliably predict the severity of NSSH, i.e. its actual objective risk to life. However, it was found that gender was a reliable predictor of location of NSSH, with females mostly harming their arms and legs, while males were more likely to harm their chest and private areas. It was also found that the combined strength of social support was a significant predictor in the severity of NSSH, i.e. depth and angle. Early time of contact with a therapist was not affecting severity of NSSH, but had a significant correlation with frequency of harm.

With the NCHS reporting a 30% increase in death by suicide in the United States between 2000 and 2016, it is a highly pressing issue to reverse engineer the factors that lead to heightened risk, and many scholars consider NSSH a stage in the development of fatal suicidal ideation. The next part of my study intends to look at the relationship between strength of social support for young males and risk of online political and religious radicalization, another great risk to our civilization in these uncertain times, and there aren’t many better places to conduct this study than Stanford. My approach is highly informed by the modern machine learning cross-factor analysis that has been innovated by Professor Musk, and upon which I based my own analysis.

I am well-prepared to do my part teaching as well as researching, having taught a range of courses in Psychology, Criminology, Sociology and Statistics, such as ‘Radicalization: Social and Scientific Factors’ which has been wildly successful with the undergraduates at Yale, and grew from 7 students signed up in 2018 to over 55 in 2020. All in all, I have taught 400+ undergraduates and mentored 20+ master’s students, and achieved increasing participation in courses designed by me year and year, and higher than average results on all previously-established courses.

I am enclosing my curriculum vitae, research and teaching statements, as well as copies of transcripts. I also attach letters of reference from Dr Smith, Dr Jones, and Robert Martinson. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if I could provide additional information or materials that will aid you in the evaluation of my application. I am available for interview during the next Criminology conference at Stanford, or by phone or email at any other time.

Best Regards,

Sam Marks PhD

211-978-1043

[email protected]”

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do i write a cover letter for healthcare.

“I am writing to express my interest in applying for the [specific position name] listed on your website. Between my educational background and relevant experience, I am confident that I can help support your hospital’s mission of [reference to facility’s specific values and mission].”

How do you grab attention in a cover letter?

How to Create an Attention-Grabbing Cover Letter: 

• Write a compelling introduction.
• Use tasteful humor in your cover letter. 
• Research about the company. 
• Demonstrate your confidence. 

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• How to Apply for a Postdoc

Like any application packet, the postdoc application should present a coherent portrait of you as a potential colleague and postdoc.

The average postdoc application will include some or all of the following materials:

• Job letter/letter of interest
• Curriculum vitae
• Research proposal
• Proposed course
• Statement of participation in campus community

Postdoc Cover Letter

The job letter or letter of interest for a postdoc application is similar to the academic job letter (see the Academic Statements Guide).

The cover letter should be on letterhead of your department or institution, with one inch margins. Font should be Times New Roman, Garamond, or other standard font, at 12pt. If no length guidelines are given, you probably have two sides, but refer to the application instructions.

Following the academic job letter guide, in the second project paragraph, give your detailed research and publication plan for the duration of the postdoc. If the postdoc involves teaching, you will retain a brief teaching paragraph, but you will include a longer discussion of your proposed course. If teaching is not involved, you may choose to include a brief teaching paragraph or not, as seems good to you.

Instead of the “fit” or “tailoring” paragraph, discuss how you will use the postdoc to write and research, and how you will participate in the scholarly community of the campus. Remember that tailoring is key: you must reframe your past work to fit the topic of the postdoc. Be aware that you are being considered solely on how you will be able to fulfil the topic of the postdoc and how you will incorporate that work into your participation in the departmental and campus community.

Research Proposal

The research proposal should be on plain paper, with one inch margins. Font should be Times New Roman, Garamond, or other standard font, at 12pt. If no length guidelines are given, you should assume you have one side.

Your introduction should explicitly cover the importance of your project. Use the remainder of the research proposal to discuss a concrete and attainable timeline and plan of work. Focus on the publication plan for this project, and conclude by discussing how the postdoc fits into your larger research trajectory and career plan.

Course Proposal

The course proposal should be on plain paper, with one inch margins. Font should be Times New Roman, Garamond, or other standard font, at 12pt. If no length guidelines are given, you should assume you have one side.

Propose a course that is neither so general that anyone could teach it, nor so minutely focused that no student will sign up for it. Tailor the course to both your specific research and the topic of the postdoc. Ideally this course should be timely, rigorous, original, and something that no one but you can offer or do justice to. The course proposal instructions may require that you write a title and catalog description, a proposed syllabus, and perhaps a justification. For the proposed syllabus, make sure you are designing the course around the correct number of weeks of term for your target institution. For the justification, be ready to demonstrate the usefulness of the course in terms of filling a gap in the department catalog, or updating a course previously offered.

Statement of Participation

The statement of participation should be on plain paper, with one inch margins. Font should be Times New Roman, Garamond, or other standard font, at 12pt. If no length guidelines are given, you should assume you have one side.

This statement, if required, is intended to demonstrate that you will be active in your department and on campus while you are there, rather than disappearing into your office, locking the door, and writing your book. You will participate in the life of the department and the scholarly community in concrete ways that you outline based on your careful research into your target department and institution. Consider campus programming or initiatives you’d like to contribute to, or faculty you might collaborate with, and indicate your interest in conferences, campus talks, symposia, speaker series etc.

• Help & Support
• Guide to Academic Job Applications
• Guide to Academic Job References
• Guide to Academic Networking
• Guide to Negotiating an Academic Job Offer
• How to Write a CV
• Interviewing for an Industry Job
• Negotiating Your Salary & Benefits
• Networking for Your Industry Job Search
• Get Involved
• Professional Development

Vacancy Edu

Postdoc Application Cover Letter Template

When used as a cover letter, the postdoc application letter format is generally 3 to 4 paragraphs long and begins with an introductory paragraph. Writing a postdoctoral cover letter is basically the same as writing any other cover letter.

Postdoc Application Cover Letter Template I VacancyEdu.com #1

September xx, xxxx

Associate Professor

University of Pennsylvania

Dear Dr. xxxx

I am applying for the postdoctoral position in your Laboratory. I have done my PhD under the guidance of Dr xxxxx, Director, xxx, xxxx and am presently working as senior research fellow in her laboratory at xxxx. I have submitted my thesis to the university and awaiting Viva-Voice which will be held very soon. I would be immediately available to join your lab.

I am highly motivated to work in the field of T cell activation and differentiation. During the course of my graduate work, I have developed an interest in the inflammation and pathways regulating T cell function. I am especially intrigued by T cell signaling and how different signals TCR, cytokine signaling and co-receptors like xxx and TLR work together to induce T cell proliferation and differentiation. How Notch regulates xxx signal strength by regulating E3-Ubiquitin ligases and thereby modulates T cell differentiation. Kinetics of NF-κB signaling in T cells and role of Notch signaling in the formation of lipid raft and immune synapse are other aspects which excites me.

My graduate work has focused on the immune dysfunction in oral cancer and role of immunosuppressive factors/cells present in the tumor microenvironment. I have worked on the lymphoid as well as myeloid cells during the course of PhD. I have analyzed the different regulators (positive as well as negative) of T cell signaling and how they modulate the T cell function in cancer setting. The important among them was the Notch signaling which has implications in increasing the efficacy of T cell based therapy. We have addressed the root cause of immune dysfunction and its association with MDSCs, Tregs and Th17 cells. We have addressed how MDSCs accumulate, their life span, suppressive potential, and also how they induce Th17 differentiation and inhibit Treg differentiation in in vitro conditions.

Apart from this I have also worked on project “xxxx signaling in regulating effector functions of xxxx cells. I am well versed with the biology and in vitro expansion of xxxxx cells.

During my doctoral program I have thoroughly used multicolor flow cytometry (nine color), western blotting, real-time PCR, siRNA, molecular cloning, co-culture assays, Mixed leukocyte reactions, Immunomagnetic sorting of cells (MDSCs, Tregs, Naïve CD4 cells and CD3 cells, γδ T cells), cytometric bead array and ELISA for quantitation of cytokines, proliferation assay (Dye dilution and tritiated thymidine assay), 51Cr release assay, confocal microscopy, chemotaxis assays to perform the experiments.

I have learned animal handling especially animal dissection, harvesting of liver, spleen, mammary glands, vertebrae and femur bones, Tail vein injection.

I have basic Knowledge about mass spectrometry sample processing; however, I would be highly fascinated to gain expertise in each aspect involved in the project.

I am interested in the work going on in your laboratory and could be an asset to your Laboratory because of my experience and skill.

I envision my future research to span across some interrelated sub-areas of immune function and dysfunction. I believe that I am an outstanding researcher in my specialty, based on my background and achievements. Having succeeded in the current research, employing the knowledge from different fields of molecular biology and Immunology, I feel well prepared for the further challenging studies and research in the fields of molecular immunology, perhaps on very different topics, as well as on the topics I am familiar with. The main motivation here is to make advances in our understanding of molecular mechanisms of T cell function and its interaction with the tumor.

Enclosed is a copy of my CV and thesis.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely Yours

Postdoc Application Cover Letter Template I VacancyEdu.com #2

Dear Dr. XXX,

I am writing this mail to express my interest in conducting my post-doctoral research under your supervision. I am interested in working on the advertised project of understanding the epigenetic regulation and role of steroid synthesis on physiology and development.

I have also previously worked on the xxx, which is differentially expressed in adult xxx cells during the xxx development and inhibits steroidogenesis by reducing the expression of xxx enzymes. In this study, I proved that the overexpression of xxx in mice testis (mediated by adenovirus) has the potential of inhibiting the differentiation of testicular and prostatic cells by reducing the size of testis and prostate but has no effect on the growth of seminal vesicles. It has also found to reduce the level of xxx and xxx by reducing the steroidogenic enzymes such as xxx, xxx and xxxx. This is the first study reporting a time-course analysis of the implications of long term overexpression of xxx in mice testis and its effect on other organs such as prostate and seminal vesicles. This study suggested that xxxx may play an important role in the differentiation of male reproductive organs such as testis and prostate.

I would further like to extrapolate my substantial experience and research more in this field by analysing the transcription circuitry of steroid biosynthesis at single xxx cell level and thereby on its application in prostate cancer biology.

I have completed Ph.D in xxx (xxx) from Department of xxx, xxxx University. My thesis project entitled as “xxxxxxxxxx”. The research concentrated upon exploring the role of xxx, a xxxxx-anchored adhesion protein in pathogenicity of xxxxx, a causative agent of xxxx using interdisciplinary approach of molecular biology, cell biology and biochemistry. Through my doctoral study, I have proposed a model of how the xxxx protein matures in the xxxx lumen upon xxxx anchor attachment. I have then further explore this adhesion protein and the linked signaling pathways in xxxx and published several papers related to this work.

My avid interest and motivation towards research has kept enforcing me to work along while pursuing my job. I worked on varied project like xxxxxxx and some more in association with Dr. xxxxx, professor at xxxx University.

I have conducted immunization based studies on mouse animal model such as Sprague Dawley rats and FVB mice that involves mice handling, xxxx extraction, purification of Primary Leydig Cells, Preparation of Recombinant Adenovirus, Adenovirus injection, immunohistochemistry, FACS (Fluorescence activated cell sorting), Radioimmunoassay, Western blot analysis, ELISA, Chromatin Immunoprecipitation (ChIP) Assays, neutralization assay, agglutination, immunofluorescence along with using molecular biology approach i.e. molecular cloning, PCR and expression analysis at both transcript and protein level, mutational studies by side-directed mutagenesis approach and biophysical tools like MALDI-TOF/TOF analysis, Mass SpectrometryI dentification of Proteins, Circular Dichroism (CD), Transmission electron Microscopy (TEM) and data analysis using bioinformatics approach like 2D-Progenesis Samespot Software, functional analyses and pathways generation using Ingenuity Pathways Analysis and top gene suite, PCA analysis along with R-programming package “FactoMineR” to reduce the complexity of the dataset, Modelling and Docking Studies using Rosetta 3.2 biomolecular comparative modelling and docking suite, Expasy server, EBI server, CHIMERA software, Multiple alignments, similarity searches, BLAST, Microbial BLAST , FASTA, ClustalW version 1.8, ClustalX 1.8, primer designing.

I believe that these features of knowledge on steroid synthesis, in vivo studies on mice models using interdisciplinary approach, a substantial research experience, skills command over the molecular, cell biology and biochemistry subjects and professional experience in training students along with the strong motivation will go a long way in pursuing the post-doctoral research in your prestigious institute under your guidance. I feel well prepared for the further challenging studies and research to epigenetic regulation of steroid synthesis in Leydig cells and its role in development. Given the opportunity, I am confident that I will be able to contribute successfully to this project with the motivation, commitment and determination with hands on experience in this field to succeed in this area.

Please find enclosed the attached Curriculum Vitae (CV) including the references details. Do suggest if any other information is required from my side.

Thanking You,

Yours sincerely

Postdoc Application Cover Letter Template I VacancyEdu.com #4

Dear Professor,

Hope this email finds you well.

This is to bring your attention to a postdoctoral position in your group.

I, xxxx and have completed my Ph.D. in xxxx under the mentorship of Dr. xxx, Discipline of Chemistry, xxxxx, India. The title of my thesis is “xxxxxxxxx”.

Currently, I am working a postdoctoral research associate, School of xxxxx xxx, xxxxx University, South Korea.

Under the thesis title ‘xxxxx’, my work was focused on the synthesis of simple xxx complexes at xxxx condition, solid-state structural reactivity, and their applications as molecular precursors for nanostructures synthesis and performance evaluations of these nanostructures in catalysis, waste-water treatment through adsorption or photocatalysis, and sensing of hazardous contaminants. Moreover, I have also tried to explore the application of the metal-organic frameworks/coordination polymers for dye adsorption and catalysis.

I have used various techniques for characterization and analysis purpose such as molecular structure determination by Single-crystal X-ray diffraction, powder-XRD, FT-IR, XPS, BET-surface area, AFM, SEM-EDAX, TEM, TGA, combustion method (CHNS and O analysis), particle size analyzer (DLS analysis), LCMS, GC-MS, UV-Vis, cyclic voltammetry and photocatalytic reactor. I am also familiar with software which is necessary for the determination of the structure of the metal complexes, characterization of nanomaterials and data analysis such as CrysAlisPro RED software and Win GX, ChemDraw, Diamond 3.1, Mercury, and Origin.

Due to my research expertise and hands-on synthesis in both material and chemistry with the handling of different instrumentations, this would be surely helpful to attain more pronounced results.

I believe my candidature would suffice for a postdoctoral position in your group.

I have enclosed a copy of my curriculum vitae. If you require any other information then kindly let me know. I will be happy to provide the same. Your kind consideration of my application is requested and I hope that you will give me a chance to pursue my research in your group.

I look forward to hearing back from you.

Best regards,

P.S., CV in brief:

Name: XXXXX

Thesis title: “XXXXXX”

List of publications: Published: Journals-xxxx, Book Chapters-xxx

Submitted/under preparation: Journals-xxx

Research Interest: Inorganic/or Nano-materials, Waste-water treatment (adsorption/photocatalysis) using Nano-materials, Sensors (electrode modifications and detection of contaminants), Heterogeneous catalysis, Crystal engineering (solid-state structural transformation).

Best Regards,

xxx xxxx, Ph.D.

Postdoctoral Research Associate

xxxx, xxx University

xxx, Republic of Korea

E-mail: [email protected]

Tel.:+xxx-xx-xxx

Postdoc Application Cover Letter Template I VacancyEdu.com #5

[email protected] , +91 xxx

Dear Dr. xxxx,

With great confidence and enthusiasm I would like to submit my CV for the position of a postdoctoral researcher in your lab. I have obtained my Ph.D. degree in xxx from xxx University, India; I have worked in the lab of Dr. xxx based at xxxx, xxxx. My PhD dissertation focussed on understanding the shape-function relationship of multidomain protein xxxx as a function of temperature using SAXS as a major technique. Currently, I am looking for positions where my skills sets can be put to use in overcoming new and exciting challenges.

It has been a long standing research interest to exploit the tools of biophysics to explore newer possibilities and better drugs for efficacious treatment regimes as well as diagnostic methods; this reason has motivated me to apply for this position in your lab. During my Ph.D. dissertation I got a chance to explore the therapeutically important protein – xxx, a multidomain xxx sensitive protein from a perspective of temperature. The SAXS data analysis showed that the protein remains semi-active at physicological temperatures thereby enabling activation of protein even at semi-optimal concentrations. This data has been published in the journal xxx (xxx). Another part of my study revolved around a truncated yet active version of xxx, here SAXS data coupled with TEM and FPLC helped us to discover temperature induced amyloid formation in native xxx. These amyloids were capable of releasing active protein over prolonged incubation, this was particularly important observation as this could exploited for shipping of therapeutic protein at ambient temperature as well as a sustained release mechanism of treatment. This study was also published in the journal xxx (xxx). Apart from my dissertation project I was involved in numerous other projects in lab which has enabled me to learn following skills:

In addition to my scientific writing I also have experience in preparing and delivering presentations and reports for funding agency as well as key opinion leaders. Apart from my bench work I was extensively involved in other lab duties such as purchasing of lab reagents and maintaining the in house SAXS facility by scheduling and maintaining the records of beamtime allotment. I could accomplish all this due to my high work ethics combined with my targeted approach and interpersonal skills. Post Ph.D. I have briefly worked as Research Associate in lab of Dr. xxx, where my role was to perform field trials of the DNA aptamer based xxx estimation kit developed in the lab. Currently, I am looking for a challenging role and be a part of the team where my technical as well as soft skills can be implemented to contribute constructively in ongoing as well as future projects. I am confident that if I join your lab then my vast experience in SAXS data collection and analysis shall be extremely useful in exploring structural-function relationship of proteins and use this data to develop novel drugs. My particular interest would be high throughput screening of small molecules using SAXS data as well as exploring the possibilities of drug repurposing in cancer targets.

I have enclosed a copy of my CV for your better understanding of my skills and qualifications. I shall more than welcome the opportunity to be interviewed or discuss my experience with you. I may be contacted on +91 xxx or [email protected] . Thank you for your time and consideration. Looking forward to hear from you.

Postdoc Application Cover Letter Template I VacancyEdu.com #6

This is in reference to the Postdoctoral position in your laboratory. I have completed my PhD under the mentorship of Dr. XXX, PI, Structural and xxx xxx Lab., xxxxxxxxx, India. Presently, I am working on CRISPR-Cas9 system and generating cancer-causing knock-in/out mutations in human cell lines, in xxx Lab., xxxx, xxxxx, India.

During the course of my graduate work, I have worked on human DNA intercrosslink repair proteins mainly xxxx and xxx. I have performed structural & functional characterization of xxx xxx repeat, xxxx xxx, xxx xxx domain and pathogenic mutants. In xxxx repeat, we find xxx motif that binds to major groove of dsDNA (xxxxx et. al.,xxx, xxx). In xxxx, we did the comparative studies of xxx Domain and pathogenic mutants (xxxx et. al. manuscript under preparation). Furthermore, we performed protein-protein interactions studies and found that xxx xxx repeat and xxx xxx domain interacts with xxx xxx (xxxx xxx et. al., xxx, xxx). I have performed molecular and essential dynamics of xxx and it’s phosphorylated analogs to address the effect of phosphorylation at the structural and functional level (xxxx et. al., xxx, xxxx). During my PhD, I have also worked in a team to explore the structure and functions of different homologous recombination repair proteins such as xxxx, xxxx, xxxx, xxxx and effect of novel anticancer drugs on apoptosis and cancer (list all relevant collaborative workxxxx, p. xxx9, xxx; xxxx,) (more details in my CV).

I have extensive experience in protein biochemistry. I am well versed with Cloning, Site directed mutagenesis, Protein expression & purification, Protein characterization and protein-protein interactions, cell biology techniques such as cell culture maintenance, electroporation, transfection, transduction, and western blotting. I am experienced in protein crystallization, structure determination using molecular replacement and molecular modelling, dynamics and docking. However, I have an appetite to learn more interdisciplinary skills, and to solve a biologically relevant question.

I am applying for this position because I am interested to work on Structural Biology and Cellular Biochemistry. Opportunity to work on the proposed project will fulfil my ambition to become a successful researcher. I’m sure, I’ll grow under your competent supervision.

My future goal is research in integrative Structural biology that may help to understand the basic mechanisms of the disease or pathway. I want to pursue my career in research and academia.

Enclosed is a copy of my CV.

Yours Sincerely,

Postdoc Application Cover Letter Template I VacancyEdu.com #7

Dear Dr. xxx,

I have worked on cancer xxx during my Ph.D and with this letter; I would like to apply for the postdoctoral position in your laboratory as advertised on www.xxxx.org. Currently, I am finalizing my doctoral thesis and expecting to complete all the formalities of my doctoral degree by xxx/ xxx xxx.

I believe, the postdoc position in your laboratory will provide me an opportunity to further strengthen my current skills as well as learn new scientific methods to achieve my long term goal of establishing my independent research group.

From the days of my masters’ degree in biotechnology, I had a vivid interest in cancer biology; therefore, for PhD, I joined ‘xxxx Group’ headed by Dr. xxxx at xxx, xxx, India. Under my thesis title ‘xxxxx’, my work was focused on the understanding the mechanism of differential xx post-translational modifications in human xxxx cancer. By working with human tissue samples, animal model and several in-vitro studies, I could gain significant insight how different xxx alter with clinical parameters and can be helpful in defining filed cancerization. I could also dissect the regulatory pathway of xxx and identify its xxxx mediated increase in xxx cancer. Further, I also showed the synergistic effect of xxx inhibitors in combinatorial chemotherapy as pretreatment of xxx lead to the chromatin relaxation and increase in the amount of DNA bound chemotherapy drugs and cell death. Moreover, out of my immense interest in tumor microenvironment, I could also report that, how differential composition tumor microenvironment can give a false negative impression and attribute the expression of any protein to tumor cells. Apart from my thesis work, I have also worked on role of xxx variants in cancer and DNA damage response. From my PhD, I would get xxx first author papers (one is published and rest two will be uploaded soon) and a review article. I have also co-authored xxx papers and a book chapter in reputed journals and trained six students for their short term dissertation. Thus, during my PhD, I have got significant experience in the field of xxx as well as communication and leadership skills.

I am highly motivated, hardworking and results driven researcher. Taken together, based on my exposure and expertise gained during PhD, I find myself a suitable candidate for the postdoc position in your laboratory where I can both contribute to the ongoing research and propose and work on new questions at the same time.

I have enclosed a copy of my CV which includes a list of publications, contact details of the referees and a summary of my research experience. Thank you very much for your consideration and looking forward to hearing back from you.

Postdoc Application Cover Letter Template I VacancyEdu.com #8

Dear Dr. xxxxxx,

This is xxx from xxx Lab, xxxxx.

Here are some points may bring your attention:

· For Post-Doc position I’ll arrange my own fellowship through xxx-fellowship of xxxx. (If you ask for)

· I work in the field of xxx Biology.

· I am very much Interested in you lab and seeking a Post-Doctoral Position under your supervision.

· We have talked before in a Conference in xxx, India during xxxx.

I am a xxx year Ph.D. student working under the Guidance of Dr. xxx. This is my last year of the Ph.D. course and I will be getting my Degree in this year (Within xxx xxx). The Project I am working on is “xxxxxxx”. I have published my work in xxx international peer reviewed journals this year.

Our lab focus on xxx, the structural details of protein degradation process as well as its role in cellular homeostasis in normal and cancer cells. Recently we have reported a novel function of xxx as a xxx modulator, through its interaction with xxxx. Apart from that I am involved in a project to find out altered signaling pathway in cancer mediated by xxxx an oncoprotein involved in many cancers. I am also working towards understand the role of xxx in xxx stem cell differentiation. Although my PhD work is based on molecular cell biology I have a lot of interest in understanding the molecular mechanism of Protein degradation by xxx and its role in mammalian cell physiology. Since your lab is focusing on understanding the molecular mechanisms protein degradation in mitochondria as well as the fundamental details of structure and function of xxx and xxx, it would be great if I can get an opportunity to work with you as Post-Doc fellow and begin my real research career under your supervision. Since I would like to pursue my carrier in the xxx BIOLOGY, your research group found to be a best fit for me.

(I have attached my CV, and my xx published paper for your reference, please find the attachment).

Thanking you in anticipation for a reply.

Postdoc Application Cover Letter Template I VacancyEdu.com #9

Date: xx-xx-xxxx

Your affiliation address

Mob: xxxxxxxxxxxx

E-mail: xxxx@xxxxx

Dr. XYZ Designation

Dear Dr. xyz

Re: Postdoctoral position

I am writing to apply for the position of postdoctoral fellow in your laboratory at the University of Somewhere School of Medicine as advertised on xxxx.com. Currently, I am pursuing my Ph.D. in xxx with specialization in xxx under the guidance of Dr. xyz. During my doctoral studies, I have been working on the xxxxx. My Ph.D. thesis has been submitted, and final viva-voce examination is expected by mm-yyyy.

The fundamental aim of my doctoral research work was to discover [Briefly write about your research topic, key findings with citations if any]

In order to achieve my research endeavours, [Write about key techniques and assays you used to achieve your research goals].

Since you are seeking an individual interested in [Write about research areas they are looking for]; I consider myself a suitable candidate for this position with a working hand in [List few relevant expertise], which is well evident by my first-author publication on this subject (xyz et al, 20xx). Moreover, I have an experience in designing the experiments, writing the manuscript, and guiding other fellows. A postdoctoral position in your laboratory will further strengthen my research capabilities as an independent investigator.

I am attaching my most-updated CV, which includes list of publications and contact information of three referees. Please feel free to contact me should you have any questions.

Looking forward to listen from you Thank You

Sincerely ,

Postdoc Application Cover Letter Template I VacancyEdu.com #10

I am writing to indicate my interest for the position of postdoctoral fellow in your research group. Your research work is very much related to my research experiences. I have seen your nature of work and publications. I would love to be a part of such groups and thus would like to apply for the postdoctoral position.

I, XYZ, have completed my Ph.D. work in xxxx Research Institute (xxx, xxx, India) and submitted the thesis to xxx University. My thesis work is entitled as “Identification of molecular mechanism for XYZ”. I have expertise in animal handling, dosing, and dissection, especially in rat and mouse models. During my Ph.D., I got experience in primary cell culture and maintenance of cell lines, transfection, and siRNA.

I am well acquainted with various cell and molecular biology techniques such as DNA Isolation, RNA isolation, and Real Time-PCR along with protein analysis techniques including Native/denaturing PAGE, 2D gel electrophoresis, LC-MS, western blotting, co-immunoprecipitation and immunoprecipitation.

I have a deep interest in in vitro as well as animal model based mechanistic assessment of different cellular pathways using different molecular and cell biological techniques. My curriculum-vitae containing details of the referees and my research experience is attached with this mail along with the publications (first author).

These above mentioned reasons motivated and boosted my keenness to join your research group. I am looking forward to this potential opportunity. Anticipating for positive response.

Postdoc Application Cover Letter Template I VacancyEdu.com #11

This is in reference to your advertisement on http://www.xxxx.com/ regarding postdoctoral position in your laboratory. I have worked on interaction of xxx in tumor biology and therapeutic interventions at xxx Research Institute, xxx, India under the mentorship of Dr. xxx (http://www.xxxx). I have successfully defended my doctoral research in xxx.

During my Ph.D, I have investigated role of xxx on xxx cancer progression and their molecular signaling involved. Enhanced xxx was found in tissue as well as in serum, and associated with poor and/or better outcome in clinical patients suggesting complex role of xxx in xxx cancer progression (xxxx et al; journal, xxxx). I investigated regulatory pathway of xxx in xxx cancer metastasis and identified xxx mediated invasion and migration of xxx cancer cells (Manuscript communicated). In addition, I have uncovered regulation of xxx by xxx and their dependency on xxx axis in xxx cancer cells (Manuscript under preparation). Moreover, I have elucidated crosstalk of autophagy and apoptosis induced by xxx analogue (xxxx et al; journal, xxxx). I further deciphered the role of xxx and DNA damage response pathway in anti-cancer activity of xxxx hybrid (xxxx et al; journal, xxxx). Apart from my thesis work, I have also worked on identification and mechanism of action of novel molecular entity against cancer (xxxx et al; journal; xxxx; xxxx et al; journal, xxxx; xxxx et al; journal, xxxx).

I believe postdoctoral position in your laboratory will provide me an opportunity to further strengthen my current skills as well as learn new scientific methods to achieve my long term goal of establishing my independent research group. I am a focused and hardworking researcher.

I have enclosed a copy of my curriculum vitae, which includes a list of publications and contact details of the referees.

Waiting to hear back from you.

Thesis title: xxxxx

Lab: xxxx’s lab (http://www.xxxx).

List of publications: First/equal first author-xx, Co-author-xx.

Research Interest: Cancer progression, metastasis, DNA damage, autophagy, therapeutic intervention and d rug discovery.

PhD Application Cover Letter Template I VacancyEdu.com #12

Lab xxxx, xxxxx Division

xxxxx Institute,

xxxxx, India

Assistant Profesor

National Centre for Biomolecular Research

Masaryk University

Kamenice 5/A4

Brno 625 00

Czech Republic

xxxst, July xxxx

Dear Dr. xxxxx,

I am writing to apply for postdoc position (Biomolecular Chemistry-xxx lab) in your Group at National Centre for Biomolecular Research, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic. I hold M.Sc degree with first division in Biotechnology from xxxx University, xxx-India. Currently I am a research fellow on a project “Elucidating the role of xxx and xxxx damage response pathways in novel Anti cancerous xxxx” at xxxx Research Institute, xxx, India.

I am a highly driven person, and my studies in Life Sciences have fuelled my motivation with passion. After completing my Masters, I have decided to prolong my stay at xxxx Institute xxxxx – India driven by my passion for science and the desire to learn as much as possible. I joined this institute to gain an upper hand in experimental expertise. In this time I have successfully carried a project on xxx damage and xxx pathway, aimed at elucidating the role of xxxx kinases in xxx phopshorylation upon drug-induced xxxx damage and showed that xxx binds to xxxx groove of xxxx to instigate xxxx damage and stabilizes xxx by post translational modification which in part causes perturbation of xxx interaction. For these studies, we employed various key concepts and techniques ranging from cell and molecular biology techniques which include but not limited to flowcytometry, western blotting, comet assay, confocal/fluorescence microscopy, Plasmid and siRNA transfection, in vitro kinase assay, in vivo ubiquitination assay, co-immunoprecipitation and chromatin-immunoprecipitation along with luciferase reporter assay. In addition I also worked in close association with clinicians on differential role of xxxx variants in regulating xxx for this I successfully cloned xxxx and xxxx with the help of site directed mutagenesis in third generation tet-on system and further made stable cell lines of xxx stably expressing these variants. In our lab we also demonstrated xxx induces ROS mediated xxxx through activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress and inhibition of xxx pathway (author et al, xxx) so I am well versed with experimental procedures associated with Autophagic studies. I also developed orthotopic syngenic murine mouth and breast cancer model. Thanks to these projects, I developed a keen interest in studying basic cellular processes, in particular DNA damage, Autophagy and their interplay with cancer risk. I now feel ready to undertake the challenge of a PhD. I want to pursue a career in science and I am fully aware of the fundamental importance of seeking the highest level of training, and of the necessity to expand my sphere both in terms of scientific and personal life.

While looking for a suitable PhD position, I found your lab, gone through your research attention and therefore decided to contact you for this PhD position, as it is a strong match and combine the fields I am passionate about with the added advantage of studies involving DDR pathways. This will positively help to expand my understanding of basic cellular processes in a physiological context, in particular during development. Importantly, this PhD would offer me the opportunity to join, one of the best Universities. Getting training here will be in my interest as Masaryk University is known for uncompromising in high quality of research. I would like to have this possible opportunity to receive the level of training that can be the foundation of my future scientific career, to broaden my horizons and develop as a scientist and as a person.

Please find the attached CV, I would like the opportunity to be interviewed and share more about my qualifications.

Thank you for your time and consideration and letting me know the possibilities.

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PhD position and PostDoc/Assistant Professor position (fixed-term)

14 may 2024, 18 june 2024, assistant professor / lecturer, postdoc, phd candidate, dietmar fehr.

The Institute of Economics and Law at the University of Stuttgart seeks a   PostDoc/Assistant Professor (fixed-term) and a PhD student (m/f/d) for the Political Economy of Global Development Lab .

In the lab, we work on a range of cross-cutting economic topics such as inequality, fairness and just views, justice, decision-making by individuals or political decision-makers, and (almost) all aspects of economic development. We use state-of-the-art quantitative methods, ranging from quasi-experimental and experimental methods, including field, lab, and survey experiments, to machine learning. We also specialize in uncovering new insights from unconventional data sources, especially geospatial data derived from contemporary satellites and historical sources.

We are currently eight researchers and are looking for team members who value high-quality research, have a strong drive to develop and advance their own research agenda, and actively participate in our lab activities. Our Political Economy of Global Development Lab offers diverse work in a research-oriented team and its own research budget (for APs/PostDocs), support through research assistants, an excellent regional and international network (e.g., for research stays abroad), seminars and workshops, active mentoring, and family-friendly working conditions. More information can be found at  www.ivr.uni-stuttgart.de and  https://sites.google.com/site/dietmarfehr . For further questions, feel free to contact Prof. Dr. Dietmar Fehr directly.

PhD student tasks:

• Independent scientific research in the lab’s research areas with the goal of completing your PhD in Economics.
• Presenting research results at international conferences.
• Collaborating in international research projects.
• Participating in PhD courses (Doctoral Program in Economics at the University of Hohenheim) and summer schools.
• Teaching tutorials (3 semester hours per week, good German language skills required ).

PhD student profile:

• An above-average university degree (Master's or Diploma) in Economics or a related quantitative field (e.g., Data Science, Political Science/Public Policy).
• Interest in topics in one or more of the following areas: economic inequality, fairness and justice views, political economy, and/or development economics.
• Excellent knowledge of empirical methods/econometrics and experience with statistical software (e.g., Stata, R, Python).
• Very good command of English, both written and spoken.

AP/PostDoc tasks:

• Independent scientific research in the lab’s research areas with the aim of further qualification.
• Publication of research in high-ranking international peer-reviewed journals.
• Presentation of research results at international conferences, workshops, and seminars.
• Participation in or independent application for and implementation of third-party funded projects.
• Establishment of research collaborations.
• Participation in organizing workshops.
• Teaching (4 semester hours per week, good German language skills required ).

AP/PostDoc profile:

• An outstanding PhD in Economics or a related quantitative field (e.g., Data Science, Political Science/Public Policy).
• Excellent knowledge of empirical methods (e.g., applied microeconometrics and/or machine learning) and/or experimental methods (e.g., lab and field experiments and/or survey design).
• Interest in topics in one or more of the following areas: economic inequality, concepts of fairness and justice, political economy, and/or development economics.
• Ability to work independently, good organizational skills, and high motivation.
• International experience is an advantage.

The PhD student position is 75% of FTE (pay scale 75% E13 TV-L) and is initially limited to 3 years (with the option to extend for up to 3 further years). The assistant professor/postdoc position is 100% FTE, initially limited to 3 years (with the option to extend for up to 3 further years), and the pay scale will be E13 TV-L or A13 (LBesGBW, if the personal and professional requirements are met).

The University of Stuttgart aims to increase the share of women and explicitly encourages women to apply. Full-time positions are generally divisible. Disabled persons with equivalent qualifications will be given preference. Employment is carried out by the central administration.

Please send your application by June 18, 2024 , to  [email protected] and   [email protected] . The application for the PhD position should include a cover letter, CV, transcripts, and recommendation letters (if any), and the application for the assistant professor position should include a cover letter, CV, job market paper, and at least two reference letters. Please indicate in the subject line of your email (and cover letter) for which position you will apply. 

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