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Definition of postdoc

postdoc

/ˈpoʊst.dɑːk/
post · doc
Plural:postdocs
•
Adjective:postdoctoral
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postdoc Lexical Profile

postdoc Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person engaged in professional academic research after having completed a doctoral degree.

Example

"Several postdocs in the biochemistry department co-authored the groundbreaking paper on protein folding."

2

A temporary academic appointment or fellowship for conducting advanced research following the completion of a doctorate.

Example

"After defending her dissertation, she accepted a two-year postdoc at a prestigious research institute in Zurich."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• adjective

1

Relating to or denoting research or study undertaken after the completion of a doctoral degree.

Example

"The laboratory has funding to support two new postdoc positions starting in the autumn semester."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

postdebate
postdelivery
postdivorce
postdoc
postdoctoral
postelection
poster

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-20th century as an informal clipping of the adjective 'postdoctoral' or the phrase 'postdoctoral researcher.'

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Postdoc. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/postdoc
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