Why Berkeley?

Join the UC Berkeley community and contribute to research and scholarship that helps shape and change the world.

Postdocs, Visiting Scholars, and Visiting Student Researchers are a valuable and integral part of the research enterprise at UC Berkeley. We welcome your interest in joining our community of scholars and we encourage you to explore all the benefits of becoming a part of our innovative, accomplished, and vibrant research community. 

Welcome from Chancellor Carol Christ

Hone your Expertise in a Community of World-Class Scholars and Facilities

UC Berkeley offers an unparalleled opportunity for you to further your research agenda, gain skills, and collaborate with exceptional faculty who will both guide and challenge you to meet your research and professional goals. We are proud to count among our current faculty ten Nobel laureates, 144 Members of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, 49 American Philosophical Society Members, and 4 Pulitzer Prize winners. In addition, each year UC Berkeley receives well over half a billion dollars in research and other support from external sources, which enhances our ability to conduct world-class research. As a UC Berkeley postdoc, visiting scholar, or visiting student researcher, you have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, research units, institutes, and museums to explore, innovate, and advance your research interests. 

As a member of our research community, your diverse perspectives and expertise will contribute to what makes UC Berkeley exceptional and the number one public research university in the world.

Living in the Bay Area

Experience the beauty and culture of the San Francisco Bay Area

Aside from the opportunity to conduct research at UC Berkeley, you will have a wide variety of choices for adventure, cultural exchange, and exploration. Whether you prefer the eclectic vibe of Berkeley, the music and arts scene in Oakland, Sonoma, and Napa Valley’s superior wine country, or the energetic atmosphere and culinary excellence of San Francisco, you will find your place here. The San Francisco Bay Area is culturally diverse, stunningly beautiful, and provides easy and affordable access to hiking, sports, and recreation.

Take advantage of our proximity and connection to Silicon Valley and Sacramento

In addition to its natural beauty and cultural, ethnic, and culinary diversity, we enjoy close proximity to, and relationship with, Silicon Valley.  This encourages opportunities for exploring innovation and entrepreneurship, regardless of area of study or research interest. 

If you are interested in law, social and public policy, or activism, Sacramento is also easily accessible and provides a multitude of opportunities for varied academic and professional development.

VSPA Resources

Unique within the University of California (UC) system, the VSPA has supported, celebrated, and advocated for postdocs, visiting scholars, and visiting student researchers for over a quarter-century. We are dedicated to providing the tools and resources needed to enjoy a well-rounded and productive research experience at UC Berkeley. 

Visit each tab below to learn about the different types of resources and support we provide.

“”

Professional Development

We provide a spectrum of resources and programs to help you develop professional competencies.

Learn More →

“”

Benefits & Wellness

We support and advocate for all aspects of postdoc and visiting researcher health and wellness.

Learn More →

“”

Compensation
We administer the guidelines for compensation (postdocs) and living allowances (visiting researchers).

Learn More →

“”

Community

We facilitate opportunities to network within the VSPA community, and the greater Berkeley community.

Learn More →

“”

Advocacy

We advocate for resources to support your research experience. Your success is the center of what we do.

Learn More →

“”

Relocation and Housing

We provides resources that help you plan your move and support that eases your transition.

Learn More →