*UPDATED NOVEMBER 4, 2025
#1 – The minimum Salary
The McGill wide minimum salary for a postdoc is only $30,000. Certain postdocs may have a higher minimum salary, such as unionized postdocs, or postdocs with a tri-agency fellowship.
https://www.mcgill.ca/gps/staff/postdocs/financial-support
[The link is a backup as McGill hid the $30,000 minimum salary for postdocs.]
In contrast, the minimum salary for postdocs working in the united states is over $80,000 at some universities.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XyRyhsTJt8z8ZwiZCiQegmdjAHXV838YBkSQwJKDZcQ/edit
#2 – Lack of Sick Days
McGill postdocs only have access to 2 sick days per year. If a postdoc is absent due to illness more than 2 times a year, McGill will dock the postdocs pay.
#3 – Lack of French Classes
To immigrate to Quebec and obtain a permanent residency status an individual must get a certificate of selection from the government of Quebec. French Language skills are an important factor in this certificate and unfortunately McGill refuses to provide free French courses to Postdocs. McGill charges Postdocs around $3500 per 3 month french course, while providing free French classes to other McGill staff.
#4 – No Maternity Leave.
Unfortunately, McGill does not have a uniform Maternity or Parental leave for Postdocs. Your eligibility for leave depends on the granting agency that pays for your salary. This can range from a completely unpaid leave, to a 100% paid leave for one year.
#5 – No Moving Costs
While Mcgill has a policy relocation costs for Professors (https://www.mcgill.ca/apo/staff-guides/relocation-service), McGill will not pay for Postdoc moving expenses.
#6 – Lack of Respect.
In certain departments, postdoc are not permitted to use kitchens and breakrooms available to other McGill staff.
#7 – NO PROVINCIAL HEALTH INSURANCE
International Postdocs on an open work permit need provincial plan replacement coverage to cover medical expenses. However, McGill refuses to automatically enroll and cover the cost of this insurance to all Postdocs. Postdocs on an open work permit must sign up and pay for this coverage themselves, which is very expensive.
https://www.mcgill.ca/hr/benefits/insurance/health-dental/ppr