Leaving and coming back to the VA?

[psychanator]

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I have a question: If you do an internship at a VA with an interest in making a career at the VA, but do a postdoc outside the VA, is it easy/difficult to come back for a staff position? I'm sure this varies drastically based on many factors, but assuming the postdoc is in a relevant area/specialty and that you are well qualified for VA positions that you will be applying to. Basically once you leave, is it hard to return, or does your previous experience still have benefit?

Thanks!

 

[AcronymAllergy]

I can't remember if VA postdocs get a formal hiring preference...they might. But anecdotally, I know plenty of folks who've done postdocs outside the VA and ended up back there for a job.

I suppose the short answer is--a VA postdoc would probably help, but a non-VA postdoc won't likely hurt. Having previously trained in a VA will also likely help to some degree.