Getting Settled / Arrival Checklist

Additional Checklist for all HMS/HSDM Postdocs

Check in with your department administrator to fill out the proper forms to start your postdoctoral position at HMS/HSDM.
Register with the HMS/HSDM Office for Postdoctoral Fellows for the new postdoc orientation. Email: postdoc_office@hms.harvard.edu with your name, department, and start date.
Get your ID card.

Go to the Harvard School of Public Health, room 103A in the Kresge Building from Monday-Friday 10 am-2 pm to have your photo taken for your Harvard ID. At the ID Office view the "Right to Know Video," and get a temporary 30-day ID.
In the first month after you arrive you must complete the required training that is to be checked off on your Risk Assessment Form and any additional training indicated by your supervisor.
Upon completion of the required training, obtain a signature or stamp on the Risk Assessment Form from your supervisor. Alternatively, you may acquire copies of training certificates to be attached to the Risk Assessment Form.
Upon receipt of your first paycheck, bring the ID Application and Risk Assessment Form back to the ID office to have your photograph taken. Your ID will be mailed to your University address. Harvard ID cards are not transferable to other individuals under any circumstances.

Get an email account.
Get an eCommons password.
Determine what training you will need on the Risk Assessment Form and sign up for classes through Environmental Health and Safety or the Office of Research Subject Protection.
Sign up for ethics courses through the Program in the Practice of Scientific Investigation. Email: ppsi@hms.harvard.edu to register.
Familiarize yourself with the shuttle schedules.
Make sure that all your correct contact information has been entered into the Harvard Medical School White Pages. Check with your administrator to make sure that the Harvard University directory information is correct.
For housing in the Longwood Medical Area, check out the Vanderbilt Hall website for off-campus housing.