Advice for Writing a Research Plan for a Postdoc Position

[EngWiPy]

Hi! I would like to apply to a postdoc position, but one of the requirements is to detail at least a 2-page research plan on a certain topic. I haven't worked on that topic specifically before, so, I would need to research it. However, this may take sometime to know exactly what to do, and I have a limited time to apply. In my last postdoc position I learned about the topic and formulated the research plan within the first couple of months of my contract. I don't know if I should apply or not, and how to formulate my research plan without direct knowledge about what is being done in this topic in a short time. I once applied to a position that required the same, and I only provided my research experience and explained that I have the necessary experience and background to tackle the new topic, but my evaluation was that "I am not qualified"! Thanks in advance

 

[ZapperZ]

So what exactly are you asking here? There was not a single question in your post.

Zz.

 

[EngWiPy]

I am asking how should I address this requirement without enough previous knowledge, or just drop the idea of applying altogether. I certainly can research the topic and talk about what has been done briefly, but formulating a detailed research plan is more difficult (if not impossible) to do in few days. I don't know how important is this requirement usually to postdoc positions when it's required.

 

[ZapperZ]

I am asking how should I address this requirement without enough previous knowledge, or just drop the idea of applying altogether. I certainly can research the topic and talk about what has been done briefly, but formulating a detailed research plan is more difficult (if not impossible) to do in few days. I don't know how important is this requirement usually to postdoc positions when it's required.

But haven't you learned your lesson from your previous attempt at applying for a postdoc in an area that you are not familiar with?

I once applied to a position that required the same, and I only provided my research experience and explained that I have the necessary experience and background to tackle the new topic, but my evaluation was that "I am not qualified"

If a job post requires that you provide something, or have some qualification, then this isn't something negotiable. Either you do it, or you don't get it.

Zz.