Hi everyone, OP here. Thank you for all your messages, they have really helped. Firstly, the PI is not a reference for me, the co-PI is and was my phd sup. and he didn't have any problems with me applying for the job at all (well not that I know of!). My notice period on my contract states one month, which is fine and I will definitely work out. It's just I feel it's not going to be as easy as that. The PI already told me that I couldn't leave - surely that's not legal! I've been so stressed out about the whole thing and so stressed about the idea that this will become confrontational which I really don't want to happen! I know my rights, I'm just too afraid the rock the boat really and have been dealing with huge amounts of stress of late - this is just another thing on top of all of it! I'm reluctant to make a complaint / inform HR as again I don't feel like I can cope with the stress of it. I just want out!!

Hi,

I'm currently in a postdoc for the last year and a half - it is only a part time contract and is due to finish at the end of next year . My partner got a great job at a prestigious university in a new country so we have moved. I have been continuing with the postdoc from the new country but recently I have been offered a job I really want in academia which is in my new country and is full time! I really want this job, but the PI of the project is being incredibly difficult and more or less threatened that I wasn't allowed to leave it early (this was before I was offered the job!). I feel so bullied and want to leave so badly, but am afraid of burning bridges and letting them down. But personally, financially, and for my future, taking this job is the only way to go. How do I get around this issue? Help!!!!