Dear Postdoctoral Community, 

The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs (OPA), in partnership with the Vanderbilt Postdoctoral Association (VPA), is pleased to invite your nominations for the 2026 Vanderbilt Postdoctoral Awards. This year, we are introducing an expanded and redesigned award structure to elevate postdoctoral recognition. Award recipients will be honored during the Graduate Education Honors Banquet, which will be held in the Student Life Center on March 19 at 5:00 p.m.  

Nominations are due by 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28. We encourage all postdocs to submit nominations early. Several awards accept self-nominations, and we strongly encourage you to highlight your own leadership, scholarship, creativity, and contributions to the community. 

For outstanding scholarly achievement paired with leadership, mentorship, service, or teaching. Nominations accepted from the postdoc’s PI/mentor.

New for the 2026 award cycle. This award recognizes remarkable achievements in pushing the boundaries of knowledge through innovative research, scholarship, and creative expression.  

Honors leadership that enhances the postdoctoral experience and professional communities. Submitted nominations & self-nominations accepted.
Previously the Postdoctoral Service Award. 

For excellence in providing guidance, professional support, and learning experiences. Submitted nominations & self-nominations accepted. 
Previously the Postdoctoral Mentor Award. 

Faculty may be nominated for exemplary postdoc mentorship. Nominations accepted from postdoctoral fellows.  
Previously the Faculty Mentor Award. 

Full eligibility, criteria, and the nomination process can be found on the OPA website or by using the InfoReady links above.  

Nomination Deadline: 11:59 p.m., January 28 

The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs will also highlight achievements across the community, including leadership roles, fellowship and grant recipients, and excellence in research. Invitations will be forthcoming.  

We look forward to celebrating the many ways postdocs contribute to Vanderbilt’s research, teaching, leadership, and creative vitality. Thank you for helping us spotlight the excellence within our community—and we encourage you to nominate yourself or a colleague. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. 

Best, 

Faith Bishop
Associate Director
Office of Postdoctoral Affairs