The Assistant Dean serves as an advocate for postdocs, plays a key role in postdoc community-building, and serves as the key campus expert and first point of contact for postdocs, faculty, and staff in the policies and procedures that impact postdocs, including those that overlap with collective bargaining agreements.

The Assistant Dean for Postdoctoral Scholars develops, directs, delivers, and evaluates policies, initiatives, programs, education and training, initiatives, data, and directives that impact over 1,100 postdoctoral scholars, over 500 faculty mentors, and supporting staff. The Assistant Dean represents the Graduate Division and the campus system- and nation-wide as the expert and liaison for postdoctoral affairs. This includes, in close collaboration with Human Resources and Labor and Employee Relations, advising and directing faculty and staff in the interpretation, analyses, and implementation of collective bargaining agreements. The Assistant Dean serves as a central resource and information conduit for the entire campus on postdoctoral policies, resources, and news. In all aspects of their role, the Assistant Dean will apply frameworks and principles of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion in serving and advocating for postdocs.

The Assistant Dean also collaborates with schools and departments to develop and implement policies and procedures to support the well-being and training of postdoctoral scholars at UCSF. These units include, but are not limited to: Human Resources, Labor and Employer Relations, Office of Career and Professional Development, International Students and Scholars Office, School of Medicine Dean's Office, Postdoctoral Scholars Association, Office of the Ombuds, Vice Chancellor for Research Office, EVCP Office, Campus Life Services, Office of Diversity and Outreach, Alumni Association, Student Life, School of Medicine GME Program, Development Office, UCSF Senate Graduate Council Committee, Faculty Staff Assistance Program, Alumni Association, Campus Counsel, UCSF Police Department, and UCOP. The Assistant Dean also represents the Graduate Dean at campus events and meetings.