Dear Faculty Relations - I have received complaints from postdoctoral fellows who have issues with their faculty/PIs about how their jobs have changed since they were first hired; for example, being moved to an entirely new project and research area, working extended hours, not receiving adequate communication or guidance. They are confused about original contractual arrangements that appear vague. What is the best way to approach this issue when it festers negativity between mentors and their postdocs? - 颁丑补颈谤听Wondering about Vague Contracts

Dear Wondering - Workplace conflicts often occur given the nature of the research process. Employment contracts describe terms of employment versus specific job duties. Vague discussions and lack of clarity around job expectations can lead to misunderstandings that may hamper research progress.

How can faculty mitigate these situations where contracts are not specific?

  • Develop an addendum or MOU that details agreements discussed in the hiring process, such as job responsibilities, office space, laboratory equipment, work modality, hours,听resources, and mentoring.
  • Meet with the postdoc to review the project, clarify expectations, and agree on deliverables and goals.听
  • Have regular check-ins, and twice yearly stay interviews to retain and engage postdocs.

If research outcomes evolve and require new roles or responsibilities:听

  • Consider solutions that accommodate both the project/research, and the reasonable work needs of the postdoc. Encourage faculty and PIs to have crucial conversations with postdocs to explain the reasons for new or different assignments.
  • When appropriate, encourage those involved to request a facilitated or mediated conversation with an impartial third party to identify issues of concern and to work on problem-solving, for example, through Ombuds or Faculty Relations.
  • Suggest professional development workshops and online resources through Organizational & Employee Development to help faculty and PIs manage lab culture and communication that will contribute to successful outcomes and to building positive professional relationships.

Written by Yem Fong, Faculty Ombuds, and Donna Goldstein, Faculty Director, Office of Faculty Affairs, September 2023听