Office of Postdoctoral Affairs
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Celebrating 150 Years of the U.S. Postdoc—and the Scholars Shaping What's Next |
National Postdoc Appreciation Week
September 21-25, 2026
National Postdoc Appreciation Week is a time to celebrate the successes and accomplishments of the postdoc community. There will be many activities throughout the week including our annual picnic.
National Postdoc Appreciation Week Kickoff Event: 150 Years of U.S. Postdocs
Monday, September 21 | 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. | Virtual
The National Postdoc Association (NPA) is kicking off the week with a virtual event for all postdocs. This year will kickoff as board members of the NPA dive into issues facing the postdoctoral community today, while keeping one eye toward the past and another toward the future. Leaders at institutions that house postdocs and postdoctoral scholars themselves will honor and celebrate the hard work being conducted today by researchers, explore the adversity faced by many, and imagine positive changes the future can bring through intentional collective efforts. You can register for the webinar here.
Sweet Treats to Start Your Week!
Monday, September 21 | 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. | Alumni Hall Lounge (Suite 100)
Kick off NPAW with us by stopping by the Graduate & Postdoc Lounge in Alumni Hall anytime between 3:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Monday to cool off from that September heat with Jeni's Ice Cream!
Complimentary Professional Headshots for Postdocs
Tuesday, September 22 | 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Alumni Hall 202
Reserve your headshot time here.
Women in the Academy: Uncertain Timelines - How Grad School Can Delay Life Plans
Tuesday, September 22 | 12:00 p.m. - 1:15 p.m. | Alumni Hall 206
Join our colleagues in the Margaret Cuninngim Women's Center for their September offering of their Women in the Academy series. In this session, we will hear from other scholars on their graduate school experience and how our graduate studies and postdoctoral training can often delay or divert various life plans. You will hear from the panel on how to navigate those experiences firsthand from individuals who were in your shoes not too long ago. Registration is required, please RSVP to reserve your seat.
Annual Postdoc Family Picnic
Tuesday, September 22 | 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. | Fannie Mae Dees Park
RSVPs Required
Free Cookies from Pink Door with the BRET Office
Wednesday, September 23 | 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Light Hall North Lobby
Complimentary Professional Headshots for Postdocs
Wednesday, September 23 | 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. | Alumni Hall 202
Reserve your headshot time here.
Coffee, Donuts, & Kudos with the BRET Office
Thursday, September 24 | 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. | Light Hall 419
Take a moment to come grab a treat, connect with your fellow postdoc community, and join the appreciation for you and your peers! Feel free to bring your PI along to join in the celebration.
OPA at the Farmer's Market
Thursday, September 24 | 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Medical Center Plaza
Stop by our table at the farmer's market for free goodies!
VPA 'SpeakEasy' Talk Series
Thursday, September 24 | 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. | Alumni Hall Lounge (Suite 100)
RSVP Here
Postdoc Grab & Go Breakfast
Friday, September 25 | 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Alumni Hall Lounge (Suite 100)
Available on a first-come, first-serve basis!
VPA Social at Musician's Corner
Friday, September 25 | 5:00 p.m. | Centennial Park
Wrap up National Postdoc Appreciation Week with the Vanderbilt Postdoctoral Association (VPA) at Musician's Corner in Centennial Park! Join your fellow postdocs for an evening of live music, community, and great vibes. Admission is free, and food and beverages will be available for purchase from on-site vendors at the event. To help with the planning, please note your interest in attending here.
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Vanderbilt Postdoctoral Association |
Registration is Open! 20th Annual VPA Postdoc Symposium |
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Mark it in your calendars! The 20th Annual Vanderbilt Postdoc Symposium is scheduled for Wednesday, November 4 in the Student Life Center.
The VPA is pleased to announce Dr. Tara Schwetz, Senior Director, Scientific Partnerships at Danaher Corporation, and former NIH Deputy Director For Program Coordination, Planning, and Strategic Initiatives, as the 2026 Keynote Speaker.
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Registration is still open! Please use the link below to register to attend and submit your abstract. We encourage all postdocs across various disciplines to participate in this full-day, interdisciplinary event and to share their work through poster presentations or lightning talks. Abstract submissions will remain open through September 18.
Additional information regarding the full program and schedule of events will be forthcoming.
For more information on past symposia, please 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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🩺 Save the Date: Flulapalooza XIII! |
Protect yourself and others this flu season! Flulapalooza XIII will offer free flu shots to Vanderbilt Health employees and Vanderbilt University faculty, staff, and postdocs on Friday, September 25, from 6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. in the Langford Auditorium Lobby. Please ensure to bring your ID and wear short sleeves!
In addition to getting vaccinated, help protect yourself and your colleagues by washing your hands frequently, avoiding touching your face, and staying home when you’re sick. If you develop flu symptoms, seek care early, as antiviral treatments are most effective when started within 48 hours.
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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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Caitlin Couch is a postdoctoral fellow in Molecular Physiology and Biophysics at Vanderbilt, where she studies the structural basis of intracellular calcium signaling and transport using cryo-electron microscopy. Her interdisciplinary background spans pharmacology, structural biology, biotech operations, and science policy. She also serves as Career Development Co-Chair of the Vanderbilt Postdoctoral Association, helping postdocs explore various career paths.
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National Postdoctoral Association |
NPA SmartSkills: Supporting the Whole Postdoc - Part 1 |
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| Empowering Your Postdoc Experience: A holistic approach to identifying and advocating for your career and professional development needs
This workshop will introduce the "Postdoc Pillars of Support" within the Supporting the Whole Postdoc Toolkit framework. Participants will complete a needs assessment to identify areas where they will benefit from more support and learn about available resources. Register here for the September 22 virtual course.
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Graduate and Postdoctoral Academic Success |
Fall 2026: Co-Working Space |
The GPAS staff will offer weekly 'co-working' sessions throughout the fall semester on starting in September 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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Presented by Dr. Justin Shaffer, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Students, Fryrear Chair, and Teaching Professor, Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines.
In this morning workshop, Dr. Justin Shaffer will present an overview of the landscape of STEM teaching careers and provide detailed advice and tips on finding, applying to, and landing a position. He will also discuss teaching philosophies and a do “teaching demo tear down” to illustrate these commonly encountered application components. Attendance is limited and advance registration is required.
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VSPG: General Body Meeting |
Are you curious about how science shapes government decisions? Whether you’re looking to transition from the lab to government or just want to understand the impact of your research, join the Vanderbilt Science Policy Group (VPSG) for our upcoming recruitment event! We’ll be discussing plans for the semester, upcoming opportunities or events, and general updates on the science policy field, and we welcome all Vanderbilt students and postdocs to join us.
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Margaret Cuninggim Women's Center |
Fall 2026 Kickoff Reception with the Women's Center |
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| FUNDING & RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES |
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Vanderbilt University Office of Federal Relations |
Federal STEM Policy: An Inside the Beltway Look |
If you’re interested in a career in science policy, you won’t want to miss this unique opportunity to participate in a trip to Washington D.C. for Federal STEM Policy: An Inside the Beltway Look. Hosted by the Vanderbilt University Office of Federal Relations in partnership with the Vanderbilt Health Office of Federal Relations, BRET Office of Career Development and Professional Development, Russell G. Hamilton Graduate Leadership Institute, Vanderbilt Graduate School Graduate and Postdoctoral Career Success, and Vanderbilt University Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.
Application Deadline: Sunday, September 13, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. CDT
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Grant Pacing Workshops for February 2027 Submissions |
Edge for Scholars is once again offering their grant pacing workshops for individuals planning for a K or R01 award for the February submission deadlines. The Edge for Scholars Grant Pacing consists of two in-person, half-day workshops. During the workshops you will have many opportunities to ask questions, troubleshoot problems, and work on your upcoming submission.
Topics for K & R Workshops:
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- Creating a grant preparation timeline
- Using task lists to ensure momentum
- Writing a compelling aims page
- Crafting a career development plan
- Constructing a budget & justification
- Watching a mock study section
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Space is limited. You must be submitting to NIH in February 2027 to participate and commit to both sessions.
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Career Development Award (K)
Session 1: October 7, 2026, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Session 2: October 14, 2026, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
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Kaust Global Postdoctoral Fellowship |
KAUST Global Fellowship Program: Call for 2027 Applicants |
The KAUST Global Fellowship Program is now accepting applications for Call 2027, offering early-career researchers—including final-year PhD candidates—an opportunity to pursue independent, fellow-led research at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia.
The fellowship provides research funding, mentorship, and access to world-class research facilities, supporting researchers as they develop their own research programs in collaboration with KAUST faculty.
Key Dates:
📅 Concept Note Applications Open: September 1–October 1, 2026
📅 Full Proposal Deadline: January 15, 2027 (by invitation only)
🔗 Learn more and apply: KAUST Global Fellowship Program
Online information sessions for prospective candidates will be offered once the call opens. Researchers interested in attending can express their interest through the form available on the fellowship website.
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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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