Information for Postdocs
Postdoctoral scholars play a vital role in supporting UCI’s research mission. Postdocs provide full-time support and expertise for faculty-led research projects, mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers, and – because many come from outside the United States — provide international perspectives in their research areas. As such, UCI values their contributions to the campus and is committed to providing training and networking that helps them get to the next step in their careers.
Role of the Graduate Division-Office of Postdoctoral Affairs
The Graduate Division has primary responsibility for overseeing the postdoctoral experience at UCI through the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs (OPA). Dedicated to the professional success of all of our postdoctoral scholars as they prepare for their chosen careers, we provide:
- Effective management of all UC policies and procedures pertaining to postdoctoral scholars.
- High-quality professional development training programs and workshops through the Graduate & Postdoctoral Scholar Resource Center.
- Support for the development of successful mentoring networks between UCI faculty and postdoctoral scholars.
- Administrative support to maintain Postdoctoral Scholar Records.
- Advisory Support for the UCI Postdoctoral Scholar Association (PDA). To learn about the UCI Postdoctoral Scholars Association (PDA), visit the PDA website.
- Mentoring for postdoctoral women organized by the UCI Women in Research (UCI WIR). UCI WIR is a grassroots, volunteer-led group that supports postdoctoral women by providing them with opportunities to discuss their experiences, uncertainties, and aspirations with other women in a group setting. To learn more and join, visit the UCI WIR webpage.
Individual Development Plans
An Individual Development Plan (IDP) is a flexible goal-setting tool that helps postdoctoral scholars reflect on their skills, interests, and values; identify short- and long-term career goals; and develop a plan for making progress toward those goals. An IDP can also support productive communication between a postdoctoral scholar and their PI or mentor by creating a shared framework for discussing professional development priorities, available opportunities, and areas for growth.
To develop and use your IDP
- Begin with an assessment of your skills, interests, and values.
- Identify and set individual professional and career goals.
- Meet with your PI or mentor to receive feedback, discuss your goals, and identify activities or areas of focus that will help you pursue them.
- Revisit your IDP regularly to assess your progress and adjust your goals or priorities as needed.
Postdoctoral scholars may use tools such as myIDP and ImaginePhD to guide this process.
National Postdoc Association
UCI postdoctoral scholars are eligible for a free affiliate membership with the National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) through UCI’s institutional membership.
NPA membership provides access to members-only resources, professional development webinars, networking opportunities, and leadership and advocacy opportunities designed specifically for postdoctoral scholars.
To register, visit the NPA membership page and select “Affiliate Membership.” Be sure to identify UCI as your affiliated institution to receive your membership at no cost.
Director of Postdoc Affairs and Professional Development, Kayleigh Anderson-Natale, Ph.D.