Description. In most STEM-related disciplines, a period of postdoctoral training is expected after a student earns their PhD degree.   What are the expectations?  How long should a post-doc last? How should you plan to get the most out of your post-doctoral experience?  And importantly, what should you look for and how do you find that perfect post-doc position?   These questions and other questions will be addressed as we examine the sometimes mysterious world of post-doctoral training.

Learning Outcomes. As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

 1. Recognize the value of postdoctoral training

2. Know how to find good post-doctoral positions

3.  Be able to distinguish between good and bad post-doctoral training experiences

4. Identify the warning signs of bad post-doctoral training experiences

5. Be able to identify the key factors in using the post-doctoral experience to benefit your career

Presenter(s). Dr. Feldhoff is the Associate Vice President for Research and Innovation at the University, and also holds a faculty appointment in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the School of Medicine.  Part of Dr. Feldhoff’s responsibilities in the University’s Research Office is to develop policies and procedures related to Post-doctoral trainees.  Over the past several years she has spearheaded efforts to obtain University benefits for post-doctoral trainees. Dr. Feldhoff is the Associate Vice President for Research and Innovation at the University, and also holds a faculty appointment in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the School of Medicine. 

Dr. Russell Salter is the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies and Director of the Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Sciences in the School of Medicine. He previously directed a research laboratory with interests in immunology and cell biology.  He was the Director of the Immunology Graduate Program at the University of Pittsburgh for 12 years, and directed or taught courses there for 25 years. He served as dissertation advisor for 6 doctoral students and on more than 50 PhD thesis committees. He has also mentored numerous postdoctoral fellows.

Please register for this event here.