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I have got a postdoc job offer from a reputed University in Applied Mathematics. Now, I have given several postdoc interviews and some interviews are scheduled in the coming days. In such situation can I tell the PI (wherefrom I got the offer) that I have not decided yet as I have some other interviews scheduled in the future. I have heard that accepting multiple offers is not a good thing.

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  • Just thank them and tell them you will respond before the deadline in the offer letter. Jul 22, 2018 at 22:44
  • @AnonymousPhysicist: There is no deadline given. Can I politely ask them ? Jul 23, 2018 at 5:36
  • Did you receive a formal offer? Usually these are signed by a high ranking administrator. If not, you might be wise to ask for one. Then you will know what the deadline is. Jul 23, 2018 at 5:56

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I think you are right about not accepting multiple offers. But that isn't the same as not considering multiple offers.

Unless you have a special relationship with the PI you don't actually owe him or her an explanation of why you are waiting. It would, however, do you good if you could give a date, not too far in the future, by which you will let him/her know.

Of course, it is possible that the offer could be withdrawn, rules permitting, but if you wait to accept you can't control that.

I wouldn't probably say I was awaiting other offers, or give a false reason instead. It is enough to say that you aren't yet quite ready to make a decision on such a big step. Yes, that sort of thing is a bit of hedging, but probably called for, since you are actually hedging.

But don't put them off too long.

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  • Is it ok to say to the PI that I need to talk to my advisor. Jul 22, 2018 at 16:19
  • I might, rather, put it that you are in discussions with your advisor. You are allowed to keep your reasoning to yourself. The PI is allowed to make independent decision.
    – Buffy
    Jul 22, 2018 at 16:21

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