Scripps Research Logo

Course Reimbursement Program

The career opportunities for postdoctoral scholars have changed dramatically over the last decade; in addition to pursuing careers in academic research, postdocs are now increasingly transitioning into a variety of other professions. To help prepare them for a range of professional endeavors, the Scripps California Society of Fellows has funded a program to reimburse postdocs and graduate students for the cost of specified professional development courses and symposia.

This program reimburses Scripps California postdocs' professional development course/registration fees of up to $350 per postdoc per year. Funding for this program is finite.  Therefore, if demand exceeds resources, applicants may only receive partial reimbursements for their courses.

Courses and Fees Eligible for Reimbursement

Eligible reimbursements include registration fees for pre-approved courses or symposia pertaining to professional development.   

Courses and Fees Ineligible for Reimbursement

  • Fees for social events organized by the Society of Fellows.
  • Courses that end (i.e. the last day of the course) after termination of the postdoctoral appointment with TSRI.
  • Courses started while on a Leave of Absence or before the postdoc begins his or her postdoctoral appointment at TSRI.

Reimbursement Procedure

Submit a completed Course Reimbursement Form to the Career & Postdoctoral Services Office within 4 weeks of the course end date.  Include:

  • Copy of course description/announcement and fees.
  • Itemized copy of receipt(s), cancelled check, or credit card statements to show payment for registration, required books, software, and/or other directly related course materials.
  • Proof of successful completion of the course: passing grade, certificate of completion, or instructor/organizer notation. For networking events, provide evidence of attendance (name badge, handouts, or copies of business cards of people you met) 

Course Reimbursement Form


FAQ

Q: How much will I get reimbursed?
A: You will be reimbursed for the actual cost of the course, up to $350 annually.  Note this is a maximum; your reimbursement may be lower, depending on the total demand for this program.

Q: Can I submit an application if I already received a reimbursement for a different course?
A: Yes. For instance, postdocs can be reimbursed for the San Diego Lab Management Course and the Transition to Industry Symposium in the same year, provided they are under the $350 annual reimbursement limit. A year is defined as January through December.

Q: When will I get my reimbursement check?
A: Generally within 2-4 weeks of submitting your form. 

Q: Can I get the check before I start the course?
A: No.  This is a reimbursement program which is contingent upon completion of the course and submission of the form.

Q: Can I get reimbursed for a scientific seminar or conference?
A: No.  If you are interested in attending a scientific conference, you should check out the SOF Travel Award Program.  

Q: What if the course I want to take does not appear on the pre-approved list?
A: You can appeal the SOF executive committee to have your course added to the list. email rwheeler@scripps.edu.