Currently, he said, a footnote in the rules states that two-year extensions can be granted to post-doctoral fellows in the life sciences. Freiden said that the Faculty should import the language of the footnote into the rules.

On related note, Friedan also proposed that a new category of research appointment, the Research Fellow, be established. These fellows would have principle investigator rights for the purpose of pursuing outside funds.

There was comment from the floor that perhaps this measure should extend to social science and humanity disciplines as well as some point in the future.

The motion passed with minor dissent.

Other items on the agenda included Dean Jeremy R. Knowles's report on compensation for assistant and associate professors.

Three years ago, he said, improvements for junior faculty were made, but after surveys taken this summer it was found that salaries were no longer competitive.

Knowles then told the council about a letter he wrote to associate and assistant professors that specified upcoming changes.