New Minimum Stipend Levels for Postdoctoral Researchers for FY2026
The new minimum stipend levels established by Penn for postdoctoral researchers, fellows, and NRSA fellows, effective July 1, 2025 (FY2026), are shown below. These levels are set annually by the Vice Provost for Research in consultation with the Provost’s Council on Research, representing all the schools of the University.
The new stipend levels take effect starting July 1, 2025. Departmental and school administrators must ensure that stipends are adjusted for hire or reappointment dates occurring on or after July 1, 2025.
Starting FY2026, the new minimum stipend levels at Penn will be:
| Years of Experience | FY 26 Penn Minimum Stipend | FY 25 Penn Minimum Stipend |
| 0 | $67,000 | $66,300 |
| 1 | $68,289 | $66,810 |
| 2 | $68,814 | $67,320 |
| 3 | $69,339 | $67,830 |
| 4 | $69,864 | $68,340 |
These increases coordinate the strategy of the University with the NIH to raise the minimum stipend level for the first year of postdoctoral training to begin at $70,000 over the next 2-4 years, as recommended by the NIH Advisory Committee to the director. Postdocs currently paid the minimum stipend level for their years of experience will receive a 3% increase if reappointed and adjusted to the next stipend level
Please note the following:
- Additional increases to stipend amounts can be negotiated at the discretion of the PI or mentor.
- Prior years of experience as a postdoc at another institution should be included when determining the appropriate stipend level for a new appointee at Penn.
- In cases where a funding sponsor mandates stipend levels higher than the University minimum, mentors must pay the higher amount.
The University of Pennsylvania is committed to providing a supportive environment that promotes the success and well-being of our postdoctoral researchers.