Hi,

I am currently a postdoctoral researcher making approx $36k annually (before taxes), paid on a monthly basis. I have no debt (credit card or otherwise) and am 28 years old. The nature of my job doesn't allow me to make IRA (traditional or Roth) contributions (as my salary falls under the category of a "taxable grant". I don't officially have "earned income", i.e. my salary gets reported via a 1099G form, not a W-2). And after all my expenses, I can set aside about $200/month. So here is my question:

* Are there any tax deferred vehicles (other than IRA) that I could
contribute to in order to maximize my gains in the long-term?
I'd like to invest in an index fund for starters, and realize that
investing 2k/year for 40 years (@ 11%) would yield > $1 million,
however, for me, a lot of that would be eaten up in taxes upon
liquidation. Any advice on what the best long-term strategy for
someone in my situation should be, since I can't take advantage
of IRAs at this time?

Thanks much for your time.