The Post-Doctoral Fellowship (PDF) program
The Post-Doctoral Fellowship (PDF) program provides outstanding scientists with two-year fellowships at Ontario’s Universities. 
Post-doctoral fellows play an important role in academic research teams, both as contributing scientists and as mentors to graduate students. They’re also a valuable resource for academia and business. 
Who can apply?
PDFs are open to scientists in all disciplines. They’re intended to support research as outlined in Ontario’s Innovation Agenda: bio-economy and clean technologies, advanced health technologies, pharmaceutical research and manufacturing, and digital media and information and communication technologies. 
How are applications evaluated?
Selection and appointment of PDFs is managed solely by the universities participating in the program and is based on a competitive process. Applicants are encouraged to contact the universities directly for more information.
What are the eligibility requirements?
To be eligible, PDF applicants must meet certain criteria as of the deadline date of the year in which they apply. PDF applicants must:
•	have completed or received either a PhD in any discipline or a health professional degree no more than two years before the application deadline or be expected to complete their PhD or health professional degree no later than six months after taking up the PDF 
The eligibility period may be extended to:
•	three years if the applicant has at least six months of relevant work experience in industry or government after receiving a doctorate 
•	six years if the applicant has withdrawn from the workforce and active research for maternity/paternity leave or to raise a child for at least one year after receiving a doctorate 
Please note:
•	The date of degree completion is the date on which all requirements of the degree have been met. 
•	The health professional degree must be in a regulated health profession that requires at least a Bachelor’s degree to be eligible for licensing by that profession. 
•	Applicants must hold the PDF at the university through which they made their application. 
•	International applicants are welcome to submit an application. Applicants must be eligible to hold a PDF in Canada. 
What funding is available?
Successful applicants will receive $50,000 annually for two years, with $25,000 contributed by the Ministry of Research and Innovation and $25,000 from the Universities.
How do scientists apply?
Applicants apply directly to the university of their choice.
For other program related information, please contact:
Karla Morris
Research Branch
Ministry of Research and Innovation
416-326-8454
E-mail: awards@mri.gov.on.ca
When is the application deadline?
Round 4 of the PDF program is currently underway. Please contact the university of your choice to enquire about the application and selection process for MRI’s PDF Program.  All PDFs are to be hired by December 31, 2010.