A program that helps postdocs stay current in their field is open for applications again

Elsevier, a world-leading provider of scientific, technical and medical information products and services, today announced that its Postdoc Free Access Program will be repeated, an initiative designed to help early career researchers who are in between research positions stay up-to-date in their field.



The global economic climate for science funding is creating challenges for postdoctoral students, especially for those looking for employment. In response to this growing trend, the program was conceived by editors and publishers at Elsevier who began to hear from postdocs in countries where funding has been hit hardest. Many emphasized the mounting pressure to stay competitive and publish, in many cases without the resources to do so.



For scholars who have recently received their PhD and currently do not have a research position, the program will offer postdocs a Free Access Passport, with complimentary access to journals and books on ScienceDirect for up to six months.



During a pilot in December 2012, access to ScienceDirect was granted to 64 individuals, most of whom used it for grant applications. One of them, Daniele Vergara from Italy said, "As a postdoc fellow in biological sciences, this program gives me the chance to maintain a vital scientific network, to read papers and write grants. In the absence of help from government and local institutions, the Elsevier program was a great experience, an innovative way to support postdocs during their research career."



In order to qualify for the Free Access Passport, candidates will be asked to fill out a form verifying their credentials, before August 31, 2013. Once approved, they will receive a personal code allowing access to ScienceDirect.



Qualifying criteria include:



* Postdoctoral researchers who have received their PhD within the past five years

* Must have completed last research position (PhD research, postdoc or equivalent) on or after December 31, 2012 or hold a position that will be completed before August 31, 2013.



For more information about the program and to access the application form go to: