Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do I get a postdoc position at Duke?

If you are interested in a postdoc position in our department, you should contact the faculty member with whom you wish to work directly. Occasionally open postdoc positions will be advertised under our Jobs page. Not seeing an advertised position is, however, not a sure way of knowing if any given faculty is or isn't accepting potential postdocs.

  • What benefits do I get as a Duke postdoc?

Duke offers excellent benefits to all postdocs. You can browse through your options here.

  • I got a position! What's next?

Contact Katherine Trinajstich, the department's Human Resources Specialist. She is your first point of contact for any and all questions. Katherine can be found in Biological Sciences 139D or reached via email at katherine.trinajstich@duke.edu. She will help you get set up. Browse through the Duke's Office of Postdoctoral Services page for loads of useful information. Also, check out the Duke Postdoctoral Association (DUPA). Duke has a vibrant postdoc community and DUPA is a great way to connect with other postdocs and find information about life on campus.

  • I arrived at Duke! What now?

Contact Katherine Trinajstich, who will welcome you and give you the answer to all of your questions. You will also need to go to the Duke Card Office to get your Duke ID card (talk to Katherine first!). The Duke Card is used to gain access to the buildings where you work. It also provides a means to spend money at Duke through a Duke Flex Account. 

  • How do I get around Durham? Where can I park my car?

Whether you plan to drive to campus or not, you should check out Duke Parking and Transportation for alternative commuting options and campus bus schedules. They are also the ones who will show you your parking options and give you a (paid) parking pass.

  • I am an international postdoc. Who do I talk to about my visa?

We can help you handle the paperwork related to your visa and get you in touch with Duke's Visa Services. You will also find lots of information at the Duke's Office of Postdoctoral Services page. Also, check out the Duke International House (iHouse) for useful resources and access to advisors. This page on Living essentials will give you useful advice on getting settled in the Durham.

  • Any tips on how to find housing?

You can try Dukelist, a private online marketplace (similar to Craigslist) only for the Duke community. This is accessible once a Duke NetID and email address have been set up.

  • Is there a Postdoc Orientation?

For new Postdocs, two departmental postdoc orientation programs will be offered each year, in January and in September. Specific dates will be announced as the time approaches.

  • I need a computer/IT help!

The best way to obtain IT help is to submit a service ticket at the Science Drive Service Desk, or send an e-mail to tts-sciencehelp@duke.edu. 

  • I need to be reimbursed for expenses. Who do I contact?

Jim Tunney (BioSci 140, 919-660-7375, jtunney@duke.edu) is the key person for reimbursements. You will need to know the Fund Code from which funds should be drawn.

  • I just taught a class. Can I get a teaching certification?

See the Graduate School's Certificate in College Teaching. If you are simply looking for a letter, see Mai Nguyen, the Department's Manager (137 BioSci, 919-394-0403, mai.p.nguyen@duke.edu)

  • Can I get some help with my taxes?

Duke Law Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) can help you.

  • How can I get help with my writing?

Check out Biology Writes, a program designed to support all writers in our department, aiming at enhancing writing productivity, writing self-efficacy, and collegiality related to writing practices.