Compensation and Benefits
Stipend
Each MERIT Scholar will be supported for a maximum of three years. The annual amount of each stipend is based on the recommended stipend levels for individuals receiving support through institutional or individual National Research Service Awards (NRSA) at Fiscal Year 2007 levels (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOTOD- 07-057.html).
Benefits
- VIVA Health Insurance
VIVA Health is the health care plan provided for MERIT Scholars. The premium for either single or family coverage is paid by the University. Coverage under UAB's group health care plan must be elected on either the first day of appointment or the first day of the month following the date of appointment. The postdoc has 31 days from their starting date to complete hospital insurance forms either by participating in orientation or by scheduling an appointment with the Benefits Department. Some form of health insurance coverage is mandatory and proof of insurance is required if the University's health insurance is not elected. VIVA Health also covers medical evacuation and repatriation of remains for international postdoctoral scholars.
- Postdoctoral Met Life Dental Basic Option
Preventive and diagnostic are covered at 90% UCR. Basic services are covered at 90% UCR subject to a $25.00 deductible. The MERIT Scholar's monthly premium is $19.18 for single coverage and $44.16 for family coverage.
- Postdoctoral Met Life Dental Comprehensive Option
In addition to the basic dental benefits, the comprehensive plan covers major services at 60% UCR subject to the deductible. Orthodontics is covered at 50% UCR up to a $1,000 lifetime maximum per patient. The MERIT Scholar pays the full monthly premium of $35.92 for single coverage or $82.74 for family coverage.
Travel Allowance
There is an allowance of $1000 per MERIT Scholar for allowable travel expenses (transportation, hotel registration, and meals) to scientific meetings. Second or third year MERIT Scholars should present a poster or talk at each meeting attended. First year MERIT Scholars are encouraged to attend appropriate scientific meetings for professional development and may also submit abstracts for posters or presentations.
Institutional Allowance
MERIT Scholars are provided $4500 each fiscal grant year (July 1 - June 30) to spend on research- and teaching-related items. Portable computers, books, teaching supplies, lab supplies and lab equipment are some of the allowable expenditures. Any unspent monies will be returned to NIH.