loading page

Creating community: How we collectively built an adaptable postdoctoral program to develop skills and overcome isolation
  • +5
  • Megan Fork,
  • Elsa Anderson,
  • Adrian Castellanos,
  • Ilya Fischhoff,
  • A. Matsler,
  • Chelsey Nieman,
  • Isabella Olesky,
  • Michelle Wong
Megan Fork
Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

Author Profile
Elsa Anderson
Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
Author Profile
Adrian Castellanos
Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
Author Profile
Ilya Fischhoff
Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
Author Profile
A. Matsler
University of Maryland at College Park
Author Profile
Chelsey Nieman
Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
Author Profile
Isabella Olesky
Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
Author Profile
Michelle Wong
Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
Author Profile

Abstract

Postdoctoral positions provide critical opportunities for early career scientists to build skills, knowledge, and networks, but these positions often come with personal and professional challenges such as stress, isolation, and lack of agency. Here, we describe a peer-led postdoc program we created to maximize benefits and minimize challenges while preparing ourselves for a wide range of possible future careers. We also give recommendations for other postdocs and early career scientists seeking to build a similar program.