Proactive Strategies for Postdoctoral Success
Throughout my five years in postdoctoral affairs across two universities, I’ve encountered a recurring theme: many postdoctoral associates express their frustrations about feeling undervalued within their research teams.
A common sentiment is the pressure to work long hours without adequate recognition.
The dynamics with mentors can vary significantly as well; while some postdocs receive minimal feedback and guidance, others feel stifled by excessive oversight and a lack of independence.
These discussions have reinforced my belief that many of the challenges faced during the postdoctoral phase can be lessened with proactive conversations before one commits to a position.
By discussing personality traits, leadership styles, and communication preferences, both postdocs and their mentors can better understand each other’s expectations and needs, setting the foundation for a productive collaboration.
Identifying Motivations and Goals
While previous columns in “Carpe Careers” have focused on the practical steps to secure a postdoc and explore various career paths—even those beyond traditional academia—I want to assist late-stage Ph.D. candidates in considering their motivations for pursuing a postdoc.
This reflection will help them navigate the early stages of their postdoctoral roles and ensure they choose a position that aligns with their career goals.
To begin, aspiring postdocs should take charge of their search.
This means reaching out to the right individuals and asking crucial questions, starting with self-examination: What drives my interest in a postdoctoral position?
- Increasing scholarly output to better compete for positions at research-focused universities.
- Gaining new skills that enhance employability in non-academic fields.
- For international applicants, a postdoc can provide continued professional opportunities in the U.S. while navigating immigration processes.
- Allowing more time for reflection on future career directions.
- Exploring locations that offer promising career prospects.
Recognizing your distinct motivations is essential for identifying a postdoctoral opportunity that supports your personal and professional goals.
Engaging with Mentors and Institutions
After deciding to accept a postdoctoral position, maintaining open lines of communication with your faculty supervisor to align on expectations becomes essential.
A useful resource for this discussion is the Compact Between Postdoctoral Appointees and Their Mentors, developed by the Association of American Medical Colleges.
I strongly recommend that all new postdocs draft an individual development plan.
This document should outline your goals concerning project completion, skill enhancement, and career advancement.
Sharing this plan with your supervisor can help ensure mutual understanding of project aims and support for your personal objectives.
Choosing to embark on a postdoctoral journey, alongside a strategic approach to that decision, is vital for maximizing opportunities as a Ph.D. holder.
By utilizing these insights and available resources, you can make well-informed choices about your postdoctoral experience, engaging in thoughtful conversations before formally accepting any position.
This proactive mindset greatly enhances the likelihood of enjoying a rewarding postdoc experience that aligns with your professional aspirations and aids your career progression.
Chris Smith is the program administrator for postdoctoral affairs at Virginia Tech.
He serves on the Board of Directors for the National Postdoctoral Association and contributes to the Graduate Career Consortium, which promotes leadership in career development at the graduate level.
Source: Insidehighered