adj.
Pronunciation: ˌ p ō s(t)- ' däk-t( ə -)r ə l, ' p ō st- ˌ
Variant: also post · doc · tor · ate \ -t( ə -)r ə t \
Function: adjective
Date: 1936
: being beyond the doctoral level: a : of or relating to advanced academic or professional work beyond a doctor's degree <a postdoctoral fellowship> b : engaged in such work < postdoctoral scholars>