There are 430 postdoctoral scholars on Cornell University's campus doing research beyond the doctoral degree in 81 university departments, from Africana studies to plant science to veterinary medicine. But it hasn't been easy for "postdocs" to navigate Cornell or to connect with one another -- until now.

A new Office of Postdoctoral Studies has been established by the Graduate School and the Office of the Vice Provost for Research. Located in 384 Caldwell Hall, it aims to help postdoctoral fellows adapt to life at Cornell, advocate for their needs and help them solve their unique problems. The goal: to create both an identity and a community for them.

"We've known for some time that postdocs are an important part of the Cornell community, but a part that has gone largely unrecognized," said Alison "Sunny" Power, dean of the Graduate School. "This new office seeks to change that. We will work to understand the special needs of postdocs, provide a framework for ongoing support, and help these women and men transition into successful careers," she said.

"Postdoctoral fellows greatly enrich Cornell and have been doing so for many generations. The new office will enhance their experiences here and ensure that they connect with each other and take advantage of the university's many resources," said Robert Richardson, senior vice provost for research.

The office already has a handbook on its Web site, http://www.postdocs.cornell.edu. It includes facts and figures on postdocs (they come from at least 28 countries and completed their doctoral studies at about 72 universities); available health-care benefits; and a primer on postdoc life, including career counseling, child care, housing, dining and transportation resources and how to get on the postdoc office's e-mail list and other useful listservs.

The office also will serve Cornell students with an interest in applying for postdoc positions, and plans for a postdoctoral association are in the works, said Christine Holmes, who directs the office. For information, contact her at 255-5823 or postdocs@cornell.edu.