SAMPLE RESEARCH TRACK – RESEARCH INVESTIGATOR OFFER LETTER
July 1, 2014
Chris R. Doe, Ph.D.
907 Washtenaw Ave.
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Dear Dr. Doe:
We are pleased to nominate you for an appointment as a Research Investigator in the Department of Dermatology, to begin on September 1, 2014. This offer is contingent on approval by the Assistant Dean for Faculty Affairs. This appointment is also contingent upon the successful completion of a background checkand a pre-employment drug screening. If applicable, this offer is contingent on your securing valid immigration status and work authorization before your expected start date and maintaining your valid immigration status and work authorization throughout your employment.
As a Research Investigator in our Department, your responsibilities will be to conduct independent investigations relating to molecular immunology in the laboratory of Dr. John Smith in Medical Science Building II. You will participate in the supervision of laboratory technicians and graduate students under the direction of Dr. Smith. You will also be expected to participate in writing grants and scientific papers. Conflict of Interest regulations of the University of Michigan apply. These can be sent on request or will be provided after acceptance of the offer. Eventually, we hope that you will achieve a high level of independence as a scientist.
The total salary we are offering is $35,000, of which all is considered your base salary and which will be totally funded through Dr. Smith’s research grants. The Department supports this appointment, however, should salary support from Dr. Smiths’ grants or your own grants not be available, then the Department will not be responsible for covering your salary. In addition, you are entitled to the University’s employee benefits package, which is competitive with that of similar institutions. More details can be found at
Your initial appointment is for one year. Your performance will be evaluated on a yearly basis by Dr. Smith and decisions on reappointment will be based on your scientific productivity, the availability of funding and the needs of the Department and Medical School. Your appointment may be renewed for a maximum of four years. If your appointment is continued, then your own funds or those of Dr. Smith’s will support your salary. Recommendations for merit salary increases are based upon a broad review of accomplishments.
We are quite excited at the prospect of your joining our Department. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any further questions regarding this appointment. If the terms of this letter are satisfactory, please acknowledge your acceptance and return it to us by August 1, 2014.
Sincerely, Acceptance:
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(Chair) Chris R. Doe, Ph.D.
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