Postdoc Cover Letter Sample [+Postdoctoral Template]

Sitting down to write a cover letter seems even harder than starting to write your dissertation? If only I had some data to base my postdoc cover letter upon… Wait. You do. In your case, the “data” you already have is the knowledge, expertise, and passion to continue to drive academia forward. Demonstrate them in your postdoc cover letter and your picture will soon be hanging next to Daniel Dennets’s.

This guide will show you a sample postdoc cover letter and share the best tips on how to write a cover letter for a postdoc position step by step.

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You’ve seen a brilliant postdoctoral cover letter sample. Read on to find out how to make one for yourself. 

Here’s a selection of cover letter samples targeting jobs in academia:

• Research Assistant Cover Letter
• Graduate Assistantship Cover Letter
• Academic Advisor Cover Letter
• Academic Cover Letter
• Cover Letter for Graduate School
• Recent Graduate Cover Letter
• Research Associate Cover Letter
• Biology Cover Letter
• Psychology Cover Letter
• Formal Cover Letter
• Good Cover Letter Examples for Any Job

Let’s start!

Postdoc Cover Letter Sample

Postdoc Cover Letter Template

In a postdoc cover letter, you’ll want to dedicate each paragraph to something slightly different. One paragraph should explain why you’re perfect for the open role. The second paragraph should usually be a summary of your research topic or dissertation. The third paragraph should translate your research into a benefit for the organization you’re applying to.

Here’s how to write a postdoc cover letter:

1. Use the proper postdoc cover letter format 

• Use 1” cover letter margins on all sides.
• Choose single or 1.15 line spacing.
• Use a professional cover letter font in 12pt size.

Read more: The Best Covering Letter Layout

2. Create a professional postdoc cover letter header

• Include your name and complete contact information in the top left corner.
• List your phone number, email, LinkedIn, and (optionally) other social media or websites. Just check your online profile first. 
• Add the city and date right below.
• Include the addressee’s details. Avoid “To Whom It May Concern” cover letters.

Having trouble finding the name of the professor responsible for recruiting? Check the institute’s website or do some research via LinkedIn. You can also simply call up the university or institute and ask.

Read more: Cover Letter Header Examples

3. Open with a personal greeting and a compelling first paragraph

• Start with a professional cover letter salutation and address the recruiter by title and name.
• State what position you’re applying for.
• Highlight your most relevant achievements and academic expertise.

Read more: How to Start a Cover Letter With a Bang

4. Show that you’re the candidate they’re looking for

• Refer back to the open position and explain how your relevant experience can help find the answers they’re looking for.
• Mention some interesting achievements that you’re proud of and that relate to their area of expertise and research interest.
• Include any postdoc training you’ve participated in to show that you’re constantly hungry for new knowledge.
• Use numbers whenever you can: they draw attention!

Read more: What Should Your Cover Letter Say

5. Explain why this is the job you want

• Include a couple of genuine compliments by referring to the institute’s recent accomplishments.
• Research-centric careers are the most common goal among postdocs. Make them understand why you want this job more than any other.
• Make them realize that if they hire you, you’ll want to stay and research for years to come.

Read more: What Should a Cover Letter Say

6. Make an offer and include a call to action

• Ask for a call or meeting and suggest a time.
• Repeat how valuable you could be—make an offer to help them with their research goals and other projects they may have.

Read more: Great Cover Letter Closing Paragraph Examples

7. Close with a professional sign-off

• Sign off with your full name.
• Include a digital copy of your handwritten signature (if you have one) below your sign-off.
• Add a professional cover letter enclosure.
• Add your basic contact details in the footer.

Don’t just send out your cover letter and hope for the best. Remember to follow up on your postdoc application. Here’s how to do just that: Write a Great Follow Up Email to Your Application 

As you can see, a great postdoc cover letter can really propel you into the seat of your dream job. But make sure you don’t end up falling short by also writing a fantastic CV.

When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check. Start building a professional resume template here for free.

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When you’re done, Zety’s resume builder will score your resume and tell you exactly how to make it better.

Thanks for reading! What do you think of this postdoctoral cover letter sample? Are there any tips you think we’ve left out? Let us know in the comments below!