Prospective Postdocs

Open Positions

View Open Postdoc Positions on the BPP job board

Penn & Philly

Founded in 1740, the University of Pennsylvania is a historic institution and a global leader in biomedical research, investing over $1.37 billion annually in R&D across medicine, technology, business, and science. Penn’s discoveries aim to deepen knowledge and improve lives. Our nearly 300-acre main campus is a walkable, transit-friendly green oasis and houses all 12 Schools and the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Penn also operates several satilite locations including the Pennovation Center, Morris Arboretum, and New Bolton Center for large animal care.

The Office of Biomedical Postdoctoral Programs (BPP) supports postdocs in the Perelman School of Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, School of Dental Medicine, and School of Nursing, as well as associated research institutes, with exceptional administrative support and training. BPP enhances the postdoctoral experience through robust administrative support, career development, and wellness programming, helping trainees thrive in and beyond the lab.

Philadelphia and the surrounding regions boast a rich scientific environment, with numerous academic research institutions, biotech companies, innovation centers, scientific journals, professional organizations, and start-ups...

As the largest city in Pennsylvania and sixth largest in the country, Philadelphia has a population of 1.6 million in the city and 6.1 million in the surrounding communities. Beyond the numbers, Philadelphia is a vibrant cultural hub, with museums, abundant murals and public art, world-class restaurants, and many professional- and minor-league sports teams. Philadelphia is considered one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly cities in the US.

Learn more about the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection and Penn’s place in it.

Why Train at Penn?

As one of the first postdoctoral offices in the nation, the office of Biomedical Postdoctoral Programs (BPP) has spent over 20 years helping postdoctoral trainees unlock the vast resources offered at the University of Pennsylvania, and fostering an environment where all can thrive. By partnering with the Penn Postdoctoral Association (PPA) and the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs (OPA), BPP works to build a strong network across campus, empowering postdocs to maximize their experience and achieve their goals.

With over 5,000 research faculty members and nearly 200 research centers and institutes, Penn offers endless opportunities for researchers to engage in innovative and cutting-edge research. As a leader in basic, translational, and clinical research, Penn cultivates a dynamic culture of excellence and integrity. Our unified Philadelphia campus fosters seamless collaborations across labs, schools, and disciplines, while our numerous core facilities provide access to specialized equipment and expertise to enhance your research.

The University of Pennsylvania is committed to offering nationally competitive pay, exceeding NIH recommendations, and is leading the way in improving compensation and benefits. At Penn, postdoctoral trainees can enroll in comprehensive healthcare plans, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; and additionally, receive paid vacation time, parental leave, and sick time, ensuring a balanced and supportive work-life experience.

BPP offers a wide range of training programs focused on personal and professional growth throughout the year, open to all biomedical postdoctoral trainees. At Penn, you will also have access to the University’s Career Services, providing tailored support to help you achieve your career aspirations, whether in academia, industry, government, or beyond.

The Penn Postdoctoral Association (PPA) is for postdocs, by postdocs. The group works to enhance the postdoctoral experience at Penn by addressing shared interests and concerns through community building, career development, networking, and advocacy. The PPA also serves as a vital link between the postdoc community, BPP, and the Provost’s Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.

How to Apply to Penn

Open positions within BPP affiliated labs can be found here.

Prospective postdoctoral trainees are also encouraged to network with faculty members across Penn to discuss additional opportunities.

NEED MORE INFORMATION - Email Joshua Darfler, Administrative Director, at postdoc@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

Additional Resources

Here are some additional resources to help you decide if a postdoc experience is right for you, and if so how to find the best opportunity - whether at Penn or elsewhere - to achieve your career goals.