10.7. Privileges and Policies

Visiting Postdoctoral Scholar status is a privilege, not a right, and an individual holds this status at the pleasure of Stanford University.  The status may be revoked at any time (even during the term of the designated status) by the University in its discretion, without the necessity of a reason.  Similarly, there is no right to a renewal of the status at the end of the term.

Visiting Postdoctoral Scholars are not employees or students of the University, and therefore are not entitled to Stanford compensation or other benefits available to regular staff, faculty, postdocs or students (including health insurance). Departments or host units wishing to make a special payment to a Visiting Postdoctoral Scholar for participation in a seminar presentation or similar contribution may do so by means of non-salary honoraria.  A non-salary stipend for living expenses or supplemental research expenses for the Visiting Postdoctoral Scholar may be provided.  A change in financial support for a visitor under J visa sponsorship may require an update to be reported.  Contact Bechtel International Center for additional information.

A Visiting Postdoctoral Scholar Identification Card will be issued to Visiting Postdoctoral Scholars who are in residence for a minimum of three months.  Cards may be obtained by visiting the Stanford Card Office presenting the appropriate signed invitation for appointment as a Visiting Postdoctoral Scholar for a fixed period of at least three months, and showing a valid government-issued picture ID. 

Visiting Postdoctoral Scholars are eligible to use the following Stanford facilities and services:

  • Libraries:  Holders of Visiting Postdoctoral Scholar Cards will have access to certain Stanford University libraries in accordance with regulations and policies governing the use of its libraries. The possession of a Visiting Postdoctoral Scholar Card does not assure access to any particular library.  Visiting Postdoctoral Scholars without ID cards may apply for library privileges at the Privileges Desk in Green Library.  Privileges will be granted in accordance with library policy.
  • Department of Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation (DAPER) facilities and events:  Holders of Visiting Postdoctoral Scholar Cards have access to certain facilities and events specified by DAPER, subject to payments of established amounts, if any, for tickets and use fees.