Working

Welcome to the UC Berkeley Postdoc Community!

We've compiled some resources to help you get started and then we hope to see you our upcoming events! Especially our Happy Hour for New Postdocs!

First things first, when you start working as a postdoc at Berkeley:

  1. Contact your host department: To obtain your CalNet ID number and UC Berkeley Cal identification card, contact your host department. Your department will also be able to help you with additional information/tips, such as verification of health insurance or how to log onto the campus-wide wireless internet (AirBears).

  2. Attend orientation for new postdocs and visiting scholars: The BPA, in conjunction with The Visiting Scholar and Postdoc Affairs (VSPA) Program, organizes an informational meeting targeted to new postdocs and visiting scholars. The orientation is held monthly, on the first Thursday of the month, from 9 AM to 11 AM. Orientation is currently conducted virtually on zoom. Please note that registration for this event is required. To register for an upcoming orientation, please visit the Orientation website for more information: https://vspa.berkeley.edu/vspa-new-affiliate-orientation.

  3. Subscribe to the postdocnet email list: The postdoc.net listserv provides a general forum for issues such as scientific questions, housing needs/rental ads, or suggestions for dentists and other healthcare providers. To sign up for the postdoc.net emailings, send an email with a blank subject line to postdocnet@lists.berkeley.edu. In the body of the message type “subscribe postdocnet” and you will be able to start asking any questions you may have about life at Cal.