1-170 - Rock the Postdoc: How to Find, Obtain, and Thrive in a Postdoctoral Position

Session Type: Coffee Hour

Integrative Statement

Should I pursue a postdoc? Where do I get one? How can I make the most of it? These are some questions frequently encountered by graduate students as they approach the end of their doctoral training. Although many helpful resources have emerged for students interested in pursuing faculty positions, information on the road to and through postdoc-ing remains more elusive. Led by two postdoctoral researchers (Dr. Hannah Schacter and Dr. Adam Hoffman), this workshop brings together postdocs across multiple developmental disciplines to share their experiences in postdoctoral roles. During the workshop, we will a) review the postdoc search and application process, focusing on identifying funding mechanisms and determining a good fit b) consider the benefits (and drawbacks) of pursuing a postdoctoral position and c) discuss how to maximize a postdoc in preparation for the job market. Workshop panelists have successfully acquired postdoctoral positions through PI grants, institutional fellowships, as well as National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health funding, and represent diverse areas of study, including but not limited to bio-behavioral correlates of early life stress, cognitive and early home predictors of academic achievement, and adolescent identity development. The session is intended to generate an interactive discussion amongst audience members and panelists, with time dedicated to Q&A and collaborative activities. Attendees should leave the session with a clearer understanding of available resources for finding a postdoc, factors to consider when determining postdoc fit, and concrete strategies for optimizing the postdoc year(s). Attendees are encouraged to bring laptops or smartphones.

Sub Unit

• SECC Coffee Hours

Session Organizers

• Hannah L Schacter, University of Southern California

• Adam J. Hoffman, University of Michigan

Presenters

• Diamond Yvonne Bravo, Harvard University

• Jenalee Doom, University of Michigan

• Dana Miller-Cotto, University of Pittsburgh