Pursuing a Postdoc Proactively

A series designed for Ph.D. students who want to better understand the pros and cons of pursuing the postdoc path, what to look for in a postdoctoral position, and tips on networking effectively to land one.

Session 1: Why Postdoc?
Thursday, Sept. 21, 12-1 PM

Zoom registration

In this session, we will cover the objectives of a postdoctoral position and why an individual may consider pursuing one. As part of the session, participants will engage in self reflection around their current training and career goals and work to articulate whether postdoctoral training serves these goals.

Session 2: Expand your horizons – Postdoctoral positions outside academia
Thursday, Sept. 28, 12-1 PM

Zoom registration

This session will be grounded in work by Engineering Education Associate Professor David Knight’s PLoS One paper: U.S. postdoctoral careers in life sciences, physical sciences and engineering: Government, industry, and academia. The workshop will begin with an overview of data on the career trajectories and earnings for both life sciences and physical sciences and engineering graduates pursuing postdocs in academia, industry, and government. The second half of the session will provide an overview of common options for postdocs outside academia including at the National Laboratories, via government agencies, and in industry.

Session 3: Finding and vetting a postdoctoral position 
Thursday, Oct. 5, 12-1 PM

Zoom registration

In this session, we will discuss the importance of the training aspect of the postdoctoral position and cover specific components of the environment one should consider before accepting a postdoc position. In addition, we will discuss practical tips you can use to expand your network to not only learn of postdoctoral opportunities but to also assess the fit and relevance of potential opportunities to your needs.