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Veterans and Active Military

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Description

The University of Pennsylvania proudly supports its veteran and military-affiliated community. From our distinguished alumni and esteemed NROTC program to dedicated University resources, Penn honors those who serve and their families.

Military-affiliated Postdoctoral Researchers and Fellows have access to comprehensive health, wellness, and career resources across the University. Services include confidential counseling, well-being programs, and professional development opportunities tailored to veterans and active-duty service members.

For a full list of veteran and military-affiliated resources, including education, wellness, and career support, please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs.

Veterans and Military-Affiliated Resources

Career Services for Veterans
Penn’s Career Services offers individualized advising for military-affiliated students, postdocs, and alumni. Advisors can assist with translating military experience into academic or industry roles, preparing application materials, and exploring diverse career paths.

CAREER SERVCIES FOR VETERANS

Community and Engagement
Penn Athletics Seats for Soldiers Program offers complimentary tickets to athletic events for active-duty military members, veterans, and their families. Supported by VetTix and the Philadelphia VA Military Hospital, this initiative builds community and celebrates service. Questions? Contact Penn Ticket Office at 215-898-6151 or tickets@pobox.upenn.edu.

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Behavioral Health and Well-Being
Postdocs can access 24/7 confidential counseling and referral services through Penn’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

  • Text SUPPORT to 51230
  • Call 888-503-2380
  • Email: support@curalinc.com
  • Visit: www.hr.upenn.edu/eap

Related FAQs

Am I eligible for commuter benefits?

Eligibility for commuter benefits depends on your postdoctoral classification:

  • Postdoctoral researchers (paid as full-time employees through Penn) are eligible for both the Commuter Program (which includes pre-tax deductions and transit subsidies through WageWorks/HealthEquity) and the parking benefit (post-tax payroll deductions).

  • NRSA postdoctoral fellows, however, are not eligible for the Commuter Program and cannot use pre-tax deductions for transit. They are eligible only for the parking benefit, which may be paid through post-tax payroll deduction, if applicable.

If you are unsure of your classification or payroll setup, please consult your department’s business administrator.

How do I know if I’m eligible for the Penn Postdoc Benefits Plan?

All postdoctoral researchers and fellows are required to have health insurance. Postdoctoral Researchers and Fellows are eligible to enroll in health through the Penn Benefits Plan for Postdocs. Postdocs have three options for health insurance plans. Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans will mirror options available to faculty and staff. Exceptions to this eligibility rule are rare. If you are uncertain of your funding source, please contact your department or the school’s business administrator.

Is benefits enrollment required for all postdocs?

Yes. You must participate by either enrolling or waiving benefits in Workday. This is required during your onboarding process and each year during open enrollment.

What benefits are available to postdocs?

Postdoctoral Researchers and Fellows are eligible for the Penn Postdoc Benefits plan.

What happens to my benefits if funding for my postdoc position changes?

If your funding changes from NRSA to non-NRSA funding (or vice versa), you will need to switch benefits plans. You will be contacted by Penn HR through Workday to determine whether your support will be from NRSA or non-NRSA funds.

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