Dear Postdoctoral Community,
I am honored to write my first message to you as Vice Provost for Graduate Education and Growth Initiatives and Director of the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.
As I begin this new role, I want to express my sincere gratitude to André Christie-Mizell for his thoughtful leadership and steadfast commitment to graduate education. His work has strengthened support for graduate students and postdoctoral scholars across Vanderbilt and created a strong foundation on which we will continue to build.
Graduate students and postdoctoral scholars are at the heart of Vanderbilt’s mission to advance discovery and deepen knowledge. I am eager to learn more about the work you are doing and the ways the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs can best support your success.
I am also excited about the year ahead. Vanderbilt is an extraordinary place for scholarship, research, creativity, and collaboration. I believe we have a unique opportunity to continue strengthening our postdoctoral community while expanding Vanderbilt's network across the country and our impact around the world.
I hope your summer is both productive and restorative. I look forward to meeting many of you in the months to come.
Best,
|
|
| |
|
|
Elizabeth J. Zechmeister, Ph.D.
Vice Provost for Graduate Education and Growth Initiatives
Director, Office of Postdoctoral Affairs
Dean of the Graduate School
Cornelius Vanderbilt Professor of Political Science
|
|
|
|
Office of Postdoctoral Affairs |
Meet the 2026-2027 VPA Executive Board! |
We’re excited to introduce the newly elected 2026-2027 Vanderbilt Postdoctoral Association (VPA) Executive Board! This dedicated group of postdocs will lead efforts to strengthen our community, advocate for postdoctoral scholars, and expand professional development and networking opportunities across campus. Please join us in welcoming this year’s board and learning more about the individuals who will be representing and supporting the Vanderbilt postdoc community in the year ahead.
The newest elected members of the VPA Executive Board for 2026-2027 are:
|
|
|
|
Faculty Mentor: Frederick Guengerich |
Dr. Heather Hartmann is in her second year of postdoctoral training in the Department of Biochemistry, working in the lab of F. Peter Guengerich. Having served as Vice President of the VPA this last year, she has played a key role in strengthening collaboration between the VPA and the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs. As incoming President, Heather is excited to continue building these connections while fostering a more engaged and supportive postdoc community at Vanderbilt.
|
|
|
|
| Medicine | Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism |
Faculty Mentor: Fiona Harrison |
Dr. Rachel Spicer is a postdoctoral scholar in the Division of Diabetes & Endocrinology, working in the lab of Fiona Harrison. Since joining Vanderbilt in January 2025, she has been an active member of the VPA, contributing to the Postdoctoral Symposium Planning Committee and serving as Co-Chair of Scholarly Advancement. As incoming Vice President, Rachel is passionate about fostering an inclusive and collaborative postdoc community, bringing together researchers from diverse disciplines and backgrounds to build meaningful connections and future partnerships.
|
|
|
|
Scholarly Advancement Co-Chairs |
|
|
|
| Molecular Physiology & Biophysics |
Faculty Mentor: Hassane Mchaourab |
Dr. Angshu Dutta is a postdoctoral scholar in the Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, working in the lab of Dr. Mchaourab. He brings extensive experience in event planning and leadership, including roles with the Vanderbilt International Researcher Alliance (VIRAL), the VPA Symposium, and Pint of Science Nashville. As Scholarly Advancement Co-Chair, he is committed to enhancing programming that supports research exchange, professional growth, & community engagement among postdocs.
|
|
|
|
|
Faculty Mentor: Bruce Carter |
Dr. Hannah Collins is a postdoctoral scholar in the Department of Biochemistry, working in the lab of Bruce Carter. She is passionate about fostering opportunities for postdocs to share their research, build collaborations, & engage in meaningful scientific dialogue. With prior experience co-chairing a Gordon Research Seminar and organizing scientific programming, she is excited to support scholarly events that highlight postdoc research & strengthen the Vanderbilt research community.
|
|
|
|
Career Development Co-Chairs |
|
|
|
| Medicine | Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism |
Faculty Mentor: Raymond Blind |
Dr. Harpreet Kaur is a postdoctoral scholar in the Division of Diabetes & Endocrinology, working in the lab of Dr. Raymond Blind. She is passionate about supporting postdocs in navigating career pathways, building professional networks, and developing essential skills for success. As Career Development Co-Chair, Harpreet is committed to creating inclusive programming—such as workshops, panels, and networking opportunities—that fosters professional growth and empowers the postdoctoral community.
|
|
|
|
| Molecular Physiology & Biophysics |
Faculty Mentor: Erkan Karakas |
Dr. Caitlin Couch is a postdoctoral scholar in the Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, working in the lab of Erkan Karakas. With a wide ranging background spanning biotech, consulting, science policy, and academia, she brings a cross-sector perspective to career development. As Career Development Co-Chair, Caitlin is passionate about helping postdocs translate their skills, explore diverse career paths, and build confidence through practical, inclusive programming and networking opportunities.
|
|
|
|
Postdoc Advocacy Co-Chair |
|
|
|
| Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology |
Faculty Mentor: James Crowe |
Dr. Ernest Manson is a postdoctoral scholar in the Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, working in the lab of James Crowe. He brings prior experience in advocacy and leadership through his role as a class representative, where he worked to align student needs with institutional priorities and promote fair, transparent practices. As Advocacy Co-Chair, Ernest is dedicated to representing postdoc interests and fostering open communication to support a more responsive and inclusive postdoctoral community.
|
|
|
|
Community Building Co-Chair |
|
|
|
| Opthamology & Visual Sciences |
Faculty Mentor: Brian O'Grady |
Dr. Jason Wang is a postdoctoral scholar in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, working in the lab of Brian O’Grady. He brings a strong background in event planning and community engagement, including organizing large-scale programming and peer-driven professional development initiatives. As Community Building Co-Chair, Jason is excited to foster a vibrant, connected postdoc community through engaging events and meaningful opportunities for collaboration and connection.
|
|
|
|
|
Vahid Pourreza Ghoushchi, Ph.D. |
Faculty Mentor: Audrey Bowden |
Dr. Vahid Pourreza Ghoushchi returns as Community Building Co-Chair, continuing his commitment to fostering a vibrant and supportive postdoctoral community at Vanderbilt. He values the meaningful impact this community has on both the academic and social experiences of postdocs and is eager to further strengthen those connections. Vahid looks forward to contributing to scholarly and community-building initiatives, including organizing seminars, talks, and continuing the Speak Easy series to enhance engagement across the postdoc community.
|
|
|
|
Vanderbilt Postdoctoral Association
|
|
|
|
The VPA is 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!
|
|
|
|
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:
|
- 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.
-
Benefits: Enhance your career development and showcase your profile on the JoLS platform.
|
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.
|
|
|
Office of Postdoctoral Affairs |
|
|
Alumni Hall Lounge Closed for Renovations this Summer |
Please note that the Lounge in Alumni Hall (100) will be closed for June and July while renovations are completed. Students who are seeking space to work or socialize are encouraged to use the Collaboration Space at The Broadview at Vanderbilt.
Any current graduate student can access the Collaboration space 24/7 with their Commodore ID!
|
|
| |
|
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.
|
|
|
|
Taylor is a postdoctoral scholar in Anthropology at Vanderbilt University, where she studies human health, including pregnancy and infant outcomes, heat stress, and health inequities. Her work integrates anthropology and data science, with a focus on improving maternal and infant health in the U.S. She will soon join the California State Government as a research scientist, applying her expertise to inform healthcare policy.
|
|
|
|
Office of Postdoctoral Affairs |
Celebrating 150 Years of the U.S. Postdoc—and the Scholars Shaping What's Next |
Mark your calendars for National Postdoctoral Appreciation Week (NPAW)!
Join us during the third week of September as we celebrate the invaluable contributions of postdoctoral scholars to research, innovation, education, and discovery.
This year's celebration is especially meaningful as we also commemorate the 150th anniversary of the U.S. postdoc—a milestone honoring a century and a half of postdoctoral excellence and impact.
We're planning a week of recognition, connection, and celebration. While we're still putting the finishing touches on this year's events, you can expect opportunities to celebrate our postdoctoral community, connect with colleagues, and reflect on the remarkable legacy and future of the postdoctoral experience.
Save the date: September 21–25, 2026
More details and a full schedule of events will be announced soon. We look forward to celebrating with you!
|
|
|
National Postdoctoral Association
|
NPA SmartSkills: Navigating the EU - A Postdoc's Journey with a Focus on Germany |
|
|
|
The European academic landscape can be overwhelming for international researchers. Join the NPA for a seminar that will guide you through the process of navigating the European Union as a postdoc, with a focus on Germany. The NPA will cover resources and funding opportunities, cultural differences in the European academic landscape, and provide practical tips and tricks for navigating the German system and what you should know before applying for a position. Register here for the July 28 virtual course.
|
|
|
|
Graduate and Postdoctoral Academic Success |
Summer 2026: Co-Working Space |
The GPAS staff will offer weekly 'co-working' sessions throughout the summer on Tuesdays from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Alumni Hall Local Java Seating Area 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.
|
July 17: Effective Mentoring Strategies for Postdocs |
Ready to take your mentoring and supervision skills to the next level?
Don’t miss the Effective Mentoring Strategies for Postdocs workshop — your essential guide to mentoring now and into your academic future!
This interactive session will help you build foundational skills in:
|
- ✅ Following Up & Following Through
- 📝 Creating Compacts & IDPs
- 👂 Listening with Intent
- 🎯 Aligning Expectations
|
Gain tools to mentor and supervise with confidence and clarity, now and in the future. Presented by the Graduate & Postdoc Academic Success Office and the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.
Let’s build a stronger future—together. Note: this is a repeated program offered in Spring and Summer. If you have already participated, this will not include new material.
|
|
|
|
Graduate and Postdoctoral Career Success |
Summer 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 Mondays from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and on Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. beginning on June 1 through July 31. More details can be found on Handshake (see link above).
Postdocs can request a 1:1 appointment with Dr. Keeton via Handshake.
|
|
|
|
BRET Office of Career Development |
The BRET Office of Career Development supports biomedical postdoctoral fellows in the School of Medicine and VUMC.
|
|
|
|
| FUNDING & RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES |
|
| |
|
National Institutes of Health - National Cancer Institute |
NCI Pathway to Independence Award for Early-Stage Postdoctoral Researchers (K99/R00) |
VU and VUMC may each submit one application per scientific focus area to the NCI Pathway to Independence Award for Early-Stage Postdoctoral Researchers (K99/R00) programs. The scientific focus areas are Cancer Data Science, Cancer Control Science, Molecular/Precision Cancer Prevention and Other Cancer Research. There are two separate RFAs, which allow different types of proposed research (e.g. basic, clinical): PAR-23-286 and PAR-23-287. Each of VU and VUMC’s four selected applicants (1/focus area) may apply to whichever RFAs best suit their research proposals.
The objective of the NCI Pathway to Independence Award is to help postdoctoral researchers complete needed, mentored training and transition in a timely manner to independent tenure-track (or equivalent) faculty positions. The program will provide independent NCI research support during this transition to help awardees to launch competitive, independent research careers. The K99/R00 award is intended to foster the development of a creative, independent research program that will be competitive for subsequent independent funding and that will help advance the mission of the NCI.
This program is designed for postdoctoral fellows with research and/or clinical doctoral degrees who do not require extended periods of mentored research training beyond their original doctoral degrees before transitioning to research independence. Researchers in the scientific areas of cancer control, cancer prevention and cancer data sciences are especially encouraged to apply.
Individuals must be in mentored, postdoctoral training positions for no more than 2 years as of the application due date to be eligible to apply to the K99/R00 program. The K99/R00 award will provide up to 5 years of support in two phases. The initial (K99) phase will provide support for up to 2 years of mentored postdoctoral research training and career development. The second (R00) phase will provide up to 3 years of independent research support, which is contingent on satisfactory progress during the K99 phase and obtaining an approved, independent tenure-track (or equivalent) faculty position.
In the mentored phase, the award covers up to $100,000 per year toward the salary of the career award recipient, and up to $30,000 per year toward the research development costs of the award recipient. The total cost for the independent phase (R00) may not exceed $249,000 per year. This amount includes salary, fringe benefits, research costs, and applicable indirect costs.
See solicitations for full program and eligibility details:
PAR-23-286 - Independent Clinical Trial Not Allowed
PAR-23-287 - Independent Clinical Trial Required
VU-employed postdocs should apply through InfoReady.
VUMC-employed postdocs should follow application instructions as described on the OOR funding website.
|
|
|
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!
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
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!
|
|
|
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
|
|
|
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.
|
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.
|
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/.
|
|
|
|
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
|
2301 Vanderbilt Pl | Nashville, TN 37235-1508 US
|
|
|
|
|
