Online Professional Development for Postdocs

In this session, Sarah Hokanson, Ph.D. (Boston University, Postdoc Academy), will provide a framework for postdocs to use when preparing for different types of feedback conversations with supervisors and/or mentors. Postdocs will also reflect on ways to receive and take action on feedback actively.

Speaker: Sarah Hokanson, Ph.D., Boston University

Many people are conflict avoidant, but conflict can help us grow and learn. In this class we will explore our own styles, consider how we might align with different styles, and learn about some strategies for de-escalating and resolving pesky problems.

Speaker: Sofie Kleppner, Ph.D., Stanford University

Details to come.

Speaker: James Gould, Ph.D, Harvard University

Unlock the secrets of negotiation in this dynamic workshop. Explore diverse scenarios from consensus building to conflict resolution, with a strategic, actionable framework. Dispelling misconceptions, we empower you to define and intentionally apply your negotiation style and help you understand the perspectives of all parties involved to ensure everyone’s needs are addressed.

Speaker: Stevie Eberle, M.Ed., Stanford University

Creating an impactful presentation is an essential skill! In this class, we will provide participants with the tools and techniques needed to create presentations that will get the attention of their audience, covering topics such as keeping it simple, having a structure, practicing, and delivery.

Participants will learn how to build a streamlined, organized outline for the presentation and receive tips to ensure slides are not overcrowded, tips to improve graphic appeal, and more. Participants will be able to identify components of compelling and impactful presentations that will help them communicate their research effectively.

Speaker: Tracy Costello, Ph.D., University of South Florida

Everyone desires effective policy, but few truly understand the intricate process of crafting and passing legislation that shapes policy. Even fewer possess the determination needed to drive change. Advocacy and public policy are crucial components in the broader landscape of power dynamics. Embracing the adage that knowledge is power, we invite attendees to recognize their potential to influence public policy and realize they are far from powerless in enacting change.

Speaker: Richard Watkins, Ph.D., Span-Inc

Details to come.

Speaker: Sally McIver, Ph.D., St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Two roads diverged after a postdoc, and we took the non-traditionally travelled. Research Development (RD) is a non-traditional career path. RD professionals (RDP) make team science happen by guiding researchers and teams through proposal development, team science, and strategic planning for research innovation and excellence. Postdoctoral training confers effective and highly transferrable skills that make postdocs valuable as RDP candidates.

Speaker: Samarpita Sengupta, Ph.D., assistant dean for research, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Arizona

Details to come.

Speaker: Erika Barr, Ph.D., Office of Health Equity, NIH

The Postdoc Academy offers two free online courses on edX featuring asynchronous, self-paced content. These courses include:

• Succeeding as a Postdoc – This course addresses foundational skills and career planning, establishing the professional habits postdocs will need to strategically prepare for their career and succeed in their postdoc. This six-week course will run one to two times per year on the Postdoc Academy’s edX platform.
• Building Skills for a Successful Career – This course focuses on developing advanced skills to help postdocs transition to their chosen career path. During this seven-week course, learners are encouraged to network inside the edX platform with course instructors, career professionals, and postdoc colleagues.

During the courses, learners can join an optional institutional or discipline-focused Postdoc Academy Learning Session (PALS). PALS are small groups of postdocs who meet once per week in-person or virtually throughout the six-week course. There are also opportunities to facilitate your own PALS and join the community of facilitators in the Postdoc Academy.

Goals:

• Create an environment for learning through reflection and discussion.
• Promote equitable participation of all members.
• Build trust and create a sense of community.
• Uphold the norms and standards of the Postdoc Academy community.

The Postdoc Academy offers 10 activities for postdocs to help them initiate and lead conversations important for their success. Each activity contains:

• An evidence-based video that introduces the topic of interest.
• A video where fellow postdocs share tips and advice.
• A handout to help prepare for the conversation.
• Additional readings, videos, and podcasts to further explore the topic.