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[trancemental]

Folks,

I am just starting on the Post-doc hunt in the Social Sciences. Can someone direct me to any sort of resource that may help me to write my applications? Even basic information, sample cover letters, interview skills related information will be useful. What is the duration of the Social Science postdocs in the US usually for? Do they interview candidates? Does it involve teaching?

Thanks

[pinkmouse]

You're 2 years away from finishing a PhD in South Asian history (according to your other posts). Now you're applying for social sciences postdocs?
Try reading previous threads here for information about postdoc applications, and don't post duplicate questions.

Can someone direct me to any sort of resource that may help me to write my applications?

This resource is called YOUR ADVISOR. And the placement office at YOUR UNIVERSITY. My institution gives PhD students a booklet of sample cover letters for different academic jobs and CV guidance.

What is the duration of the Social Science postdocs in the US usually for? Do they interview candidates? Does it involve teaching?

Are you joking? How about you look at the JOB ADS (that would be the place to start, before asking questions here). They will tell you how long the job is for, what the search involves, and whether the postdoc is expected to teach. There is no "usually".

[laurel_knx]

I think the first response was a little harsh, so since I'm in the same boat as you profess to be, I'll share what I know. In general, I've heard SS post-docs don't tend to be advertised unless it's with an organized lab that regularly has post-docs. This means that you need to get your advisor and anyone else you know to help you identify people who have the funding and interest to support a post-doc. OR you need to identify independent funding and potential mentors.

As pinkmouse says, all the things you ask about vary by place (especially if the mentor provides the funding). Teaching is usually a minor component of a post-doc (e.g., you teach one class a year), though in the case of a "teaching post-doc" it is the primary focus. Two years is normal, but it can vary a lot. This website has some pretty good advice:

http://www.psych.ucla.edu/graduate/current-students/career-search/tips-for-finding-post-doctoral-positions

Their advice not to send a research proposal with your first inquiry was a surprise to me (as was their advice to send a perfunctory first contact). Google around for websites with more advice and especially ask people in your field what the norm is. Good luck.

[pdj2008]

Have you checked the "www.PostdocJobs.com" website?

In addition, you may want to look at "http://www.HigherEdSpace.com/index.php/jobs".