Dear Postdocs,
November brings one of my favorite opportunities for our postdoctoral community to come together: the Annual Postdoctoral Symposium, taking place on November 4. This year marks the 20th annual symposium, especially meaningful as we also recognize 150 years since the first postdoctoral position in the United States. The symposium is a wonderful opportunity to hear about the breadth of research being conducted by postdocs across Vanderbilt, learn from one another, and connect with colleagues from across the community. I hope you are planning to join us in celebrating the work and contributions of Vanderbilt’s postdoctoral scholars.
I also want to extend my thanks to the VPA Board and the Symposium Planning Committee for the time, thought, and effort they have put into making this year’s event possible.
Finally, VPA elections are now open. I encourage you to nominate yourself or a colleague and help shape the postdoctoral community at Vanderbilt. More information is below.
I look forward to seeing many of you at the symposium this week.
Sincerely,
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Faith Bishop
Director, Office of Postdoctoral Affairs
Special Project Director for Graduate Education & Postdoctoral Training
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Office of Postdoctoral Affairs |
You're Invited! 2026 Annual Postdoc Holiday Luncheon |
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It's the most wonderful time of the year, and we're celebrating with our Vanderbilt postdoc community! Join us for our Annual Postdoc Holiday Luncheon on Tuesday, December 8, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in Alumni Hall, Memorial Room (202) for a festive afternoon filled with delicious food, holiday cheer, and time to connect with fellow postdocs. Whether you're catching up with familiar faces or meeting new colleagues, we'd love to celebrate the season with you!
RSVPs are required, so be sure to reserve your spot using the registration link below.
RSVP by November 27.
We look forward to seeing you there!
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Vanderbilt Postdoctoral Association |
This Week! VPA 20th Annual Postdoc Symposium |
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The countdown is on! This Wednesday, November 4, at the Student Life Center, the Vanderbilt Postdoctoral Association (VPA) will host its' 20th Annual Postdoc Symposium at the Student Life Center. This year's symposium celebrates the impact of postdoctoral researchers and looks ahead to the next 150 years of discovery, featuring a keynote address from Dr. Tara Schwetz, poster sessions, lightning talks, career development discussions, and opportunities to connect with colleagues and other campus partners.
Whether you're presenting your research, attending a session, or cheering on your fellow postdocs, we look forward to celebrating the incredible contributions of Vanderbilt's postdoctoral community. Check out the schedule below and plan your day!
Postdocs power discovery. We hope to see you there!
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Additional information regarding the full program and schedule of events is available on our website at the link below.
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2027 VPA Executive Board Nominations Are Open! |
Interested in making a meaningful impact on the Vanderbilt postdoctoral community? The Vanderbilt Postdoctoral Association (VPA) is seeking nominations for its 2027 Executive Board! This is a great opportunity to take on a leadership role, connect with fellow postdocs, and help shape initiatives that support the postdoctoral experience at Vanderbilt.
Open Positions:
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Scholarly Advancement Co-Chair (1 position)
- Community Building Co-Chair (1 position)
- Postdoc Advocacy Co-Chair (1 position)
- Career Development Co-Chair (1 position)
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All Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt Health postdocs are encouraged to participate, regardless of experience level. Self-nominations are welcome! You may nominate yourself or a colleague.
Nomination Deadline: Friday, November 13, at 11:59 p.m. CST
The term of these positions will run January 2027 through December 2027. Learn more about VPA leadership roles and responsibilities in the VPA Bylaws or visit the VPA website.
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The VPA is always looking for current Vanderbilt Postdocs to serve as mentors for the Postdoc Buddy Program!
The goal of this program is to systematically match new, incoming postdocs with current Vandy postdocs based on multiple factors that the buddies deem fruitful for a match to help build a supportive, welcoming community! Interested? Complete this quick survey.
The VPA team will notify you when you have been matched with an incoming postdoc!
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Journal of Life Sciences (JoLS) |
Become a Postdoc Reviewer! |
The Journal of Life Sciences (JoLS) invites postdocs to join JoLS-Pub, a new platform where scientists share layperson-friendly summaries of their published research. As a reviewer, you’ll gain editorial experience, refine your science communication skills, and mentor graduate and undergraduate trainees while promoting accurate, accessible science for the public.
Key Details:
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- Role: Review 2000-word summaries that explain PubMed-indexed research in simple terms, with optional illustrations and author bios.
- Team Structure: Reviews are conducted by a postdoc-led team, with graduate and undergraduate members.
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Benefits: Enhance your career development and showcase your profile on the JoLS platform.
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Register now to join the JoLS-Pub editorial team and help bridge the gap between science and society! Encourage your trainees to register as reviewers too. You can register by emailing info@journaloflifesciences.org.
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International Student & Scholar Services |
🌏 November 6: Immigration Attorney Day with ISSS |
Join ISSS and OPA for two in-person sessions with Dan Oldenburg from Cline Williams to learn more about immigration options for remaining in the U.S. after completing your academic training.
Session 1: Options After OPT/AT
Friday, November 6 | 10:00 a.m. - 11: 15 a.m. | Alumni Hall 202 (Memorial Room)
This session will provide an overview of immigration options available to international students and scholars after OPT or Academic Training, including H-1B and other employer-sponsored visa pathways!
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Session 2: Self-Petitioned Pathways to Permanent Residency
Friday, November 6 | 1:30 p.m. - 2:45 p.m. | Alumni Hall 202 (Memorial Room)
This session will explore potential pathways to permanent residency that do not require employer sponsorship, including self-petition options and general eligibility considerations.
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International Education Week |
Call for Abstracts: Global Voices |
The Graduate School and Office of Postdoctoral Affairs will host Global Voices: A Coffeehouse Conversation on International Research to showcase the outstanding international research of Vanderbilt's graduate students and postdoctoral scholars. This event, part of International Education Week, will take place on Tuesday, November 17, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Alumni Hall Reading Room (206).
This event provides graduate students and postdocs with a platform for sharing their global research with a broad audience while practicing concise, impactful communication. Participants gain valuable experience in presenting their international work, while sharpening skills transferable to professional success in both industry and academia.
We invite you to submit an abstract to present a 7-10 minute talk about your internationally-focused research. Topics may include field work, international collaborations, study abroad research, global partnerships, or any research conducted outside the United States that has shaped your academic journey.
Lunch will be provided.
Postdocs and students invited to present at Global Voices will receive a token of appreciation for their participation, have the opportunity to build connections across disciplines by sharing their global perspectives, and enjoy a chance to celebrate international education by fostering cross-cultural dialogue.
Who Should Apply: Postdoctoral scholars and graduate students from all disciplines with internationally-focused research they're excited to share.
Submission Deadline: Monday, November 2. Selected Postdocs and Graduate Students will be notified on Thursday, November 5.
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🏥 Save the Date: Navigating the American Healthcare System |
Navigating the American healthcare system can be complicated, especially when you're new to the U.S.! Join the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs and People, Culture, and Belonging during International Education Week for an informative workshop designed to help international students and scholars better understand the U.S. healthcare system and learn how to navigate benefits plans, resources, and support programs. Whether you're new to Vanderbilt or simply looking to make the most of your available benefits, this session is a great opportunity to ask questions and get familiar with the resources available to you.
📅 Thursday, November 19
🕙 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
📍 Sarratt/Rand Center, Room 325/327
Registration details will be forthcoming. Stay tuned for more information!
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Research Security Training |
Reminder: Complete Research Security Training |
Federal funding agencies now require investigators to complete research security training in accordance with the CHIPS and Science Act (P.L. 117-167). To support compliance with these federal requirements, Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center require all postdoctoral scholars to complete research security training annually.
If you have questions, please contact the appropriate office:
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Division of Government and Community Relations |
Simplifying community engagement, so you can invest your energy where it matters. Get Connected today! Find volunteer opportunities easily, sign-up quickly and track your service hours efficiently.
Visit vu.edu/getconnected and log in with your VUNetID to get started.
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Ernest Ziem Manson is a postdoctoral fellow at Vanderbilt’s Center for Antibody Therapeutics, where he researches neutralizing human antibodies against snake, spider, and other medically relevant toxins. Building on his doctoral research in snake venom therapeutics and experience supporting vaccine development in Ghana, Ernest is passionate about translating scientific discoveries into solutions for underserved communities. He also serves as Co-Chair of the Vanderbilt Postdoctoral Association’s Postdoc Advocacy Committee, championing community engagement and postdoc advocacy.
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National Postdoctoral Association |
NPA SmartSkills: Personal Branding - Managing Your Online Footprint |
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Your online presence is an important part of your professional identity! Join the National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) for this month's SmartSkills session focused on personal branding and managing your online footprint. Explore the role your digital presence plays in shaping your professional reputation and learn more about presenting yourself effectively in an increasingly connected world.
Additional session details to come. Register here for the November 17 virtual course.
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Graduate and Postdoctoral Academic Success |
Fall 2026: Co-Working Space |
The GPAS staff is currently offering weekly 'co-working' sessions throughout the fall semester on Thursdays from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Alumni Hall Graduate & Postdoc Lounge (100) for anyone to come by and work alongside them. This time can be used for writing, planning or other academic projects. Stacey or Nick will be there to discuss any goals setting or accountability questions you may have. If you are looking for a quiet space to work on projects in the company of colleagues, this is the place to stop in. They will also provide free coffee (and sometimes snacks)! See you there!
No registration required.
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Graduate and Postdoctoral Career Success |
Fall Drop-In Hours & 1:1 Meeting Information |
Graduate and Postdoctoral Career Success (GPCS) supports academic and non-academic career and professional development of postdoctoral fellows in non-biomedical STEM, Humanities, and Social Sciences disciplines.
GPCS has weekly virtual drop-in hours on Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. beginning on August 27. More details can be found on Handshake (see link above).
Postdocs can request a 1:1 appointment with Dr. Keeton via Handshake.
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BRET Office of Career Development |
The BRET Office of Career Development supports biomedical postdoctoral fellows in the School of Medicine and VUMC.
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Looking Ahead for November: Careers in Consulting |
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PhD Career Stories: Careers in Consulting
Friday, November 6 | 10:00 a.m. | Virtual
Featuring Alexandra Dornbush, PhD, Life Sciences Consultant, Putnam, Kimberly Pope, PhD, Senior Associate, Command Strategies, LLC
ASPIRE Up: Dissecting Consulting - Industry Recruiting and What It Takes
Tuesday, November 10 | 10:00 a.m. | Virtual
Designed with advanced-degree candidates in mind, this session will explore the types of consulting firms and roles available, what consultants actually do, how the recruiting process works, and what firms evaluate when hiring.
ASPIRE Up: Looking Through the Microscope - Consulting Case Interview
Tuesday, November 17 | 10:00 a.m. | Virtual
Participants will learn how consultants structure ambiguous problems, approach a case from the opening question through the final recommendation, and communicate their thinking effectively under pressure.
Cosponsored BRET Career and Professional Development and the VU Advanced Degree Consulting Club
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Margaret Cuninggim Women's Center |
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| FUNDING & RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES |
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Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center |
2027 ExCEL Scholar Award Competition |
Are you a mid- to late-stage postdoctoral researcher preparing to transition to an independent academic position? The Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center (MECCC) is now accepting applications for its fifth annual ExCEL Scholar Award Competition.
Selected scholars will be invited to present their research at the MECCC ExCEL Symposium on March 15, 2027, at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, with additional opportunities to connect with faculty and trainees through one-on-one meetings and networking events. Research should align with one of MECCC’s cancer research programs.
Applications close on November 16, 2026.
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Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation
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Damon Runyon Quantitative Biology Fellowship Award |
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The Damon Runyon Quantitative Biology Fellowship Award supports emerging scientists who combine computational or quantitative approaches with cancer biology research. The fellowship is designed for researchers trained in fields such as mathematics, computer science, physics, engineering, or related disciplines who are pursuing careers in computational/quantitative biology under joint mentorship from computational (“dry lab”) and cancer biology (“wet lab”) investigators.
The award provides $240,000 over three years in stipend and expense support. For eligibility criteria, please visit their website here.
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| 📅 Application Deadline: December 1, 2026 | 4:00 p.m. ET
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Join the VPA Slack Channel |
Join the VandyPostdocs Slack channel, where they offer dedicated channels for all general announcements, calendar events for all postdoc-related activities, job postings, social events (both formal and informal), and discussion about anything and everything!
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Are you a postdoc that has been awarded a new fellowship or accepted a faculty position? Have you published a high-impact journal article or had your book accepted for publication? Let OPA know so we can celebrate through our newsletter, website, and social media.
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Graduate and Postdoc Academic Success |
The Graduate & Postdoc Academic Success (GPAS) are here to support graduate students and postdocs with anything that keeps them from doing their best academic work. They provide strategies to address concerns around progress and productivity, as well as, navigating academic relationships. They address your needs through 1-on-1 consultations and success planning sessions. Additionally, both of their staff members are Gallup-Certified Strength Coaches and able to give you access to the CliftonStrengths Assessment to help you accomplish your best work utilizing an authentic approach to who you are and how you show up. If you are interested in meeting with one of the staff members, you can schedule an appointment here. If you ever feel like you are “stuck” in your writing and/or research, we hope that you will reach out and connect with them.
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Graduate and Postdoc Career Success |
The Graduate and Postdoctoral Career Success (GPCS) program provides essential support to departments/programs, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows to allow scholars to build skills, cultivate confidence, and design successful careers.
The GPCS supports the academic and non-academic career and professional development of postdoctoral fellows in non-biomedical STEM, Humanities, and Social Sciences disciplines.
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BRET Office of Career Development ASPIRE Program |
The BRET Office Career Development ASPIRE Program provides career and professional development services and enrichment activities for PhD students and postdoctoral fellows in the biomedical sciences at VU and VUMC.
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The Vanderbilt University English Language Center (ELC) provides academic and professional English instruction and targeted resources for international students, faculty, staff, scholars, and their families. Our goal is to ensure that every member of our community can thrive at Vanderbilt by offering innovative, high-quality, and individualized language support. The ELC offers courses and services that address the academic, professional, and practical language needs of the Vanderbilt community while also fostering cross-cultural understanding and effective communication.
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The K.C. Potter Center is a welcoming space and resource hub for students, postdocs, faculty, and staff. The center provides community, support, and programming aimed at fostering inclusion across campus. Check out their upcoming events on their website.
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Margaret Cuninggim Women's Center |
The Margaret Cuninggim Women’s Center is an affirming space for women and for all members of the Vanderbilt community that actively resists discrimination in all forms, including sexism, by providing resources and educational programming.
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The Office of Research Weekly Update delivers the latest news, events, and funding opportunities from across the School of Medicine. All postdocs are invited to subscribe here!
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The Writing Studio offers weekly writing groups for graduate students and postdocs during the Fall and Spring semesters on Tuesday afternoons from 2-5pm and Friday mornings from 9am-12pm. Students are welcome to attend one or both days and are encouraged to commit to attending each week. Each group meeting begins with a brief 10-minute check-in during which participants are invited to share their writing goals for the session. Participants then check in again at the end of the session to share their progress. A Writing Studio facilitator is available throughout to provide an additional sense of community and accountability. To participate, please complete this registration form.
More information can be found here: Writing Groups | The Writing Studio
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Career Center Photo Booth - The Career Center is proud to present their free, self-service photo booth. Just step inside, pose, and share! Located in the Student Life Center, this resource is free and available to the entire Vanderbilt community. The photo booth is available for use anytime the Student Life Center is open.
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Holy Days Calendar - The Vanderbilt Holy Days Calendar provides a broad list of major holy days throughout the year and includes recommended accommodations for community members observing each holy day. For more information, please read the communication here.
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Nature MasterClass - Nature Masterclasses are developed by Nature Research and provide professional development training for researchers by drawing on the expertise of Nature Research journal editors and experts. Faculty, staff, postdocs, and students of Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center are free to sign up at https://masterclasses.nature.com/.
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Connect with the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs |
Connect with the Vanderbilt Postdoc Association |
Vanderbilt University Office of Postdoctoral Affairs | 615.343.1990
117 Alumni Hall | 2205 West End Ave., Nashville, TN 37240
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2301 Vanderbilt Pl | Nashville, TN 37235-1508 US
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