September 19–23 is National Postdoc Appreciation Week
The thirteenth annual National Postdoc Appreciation Week will take place the third week of September this year. To learn more, visit the National Postdoc Association website, and don’t forget to show appreciation for your fellow NICHD postdocs!
DUE THIS MONTH: Intramural Research Fellowship (IRF)
Funding opportunity for all NICHD fellows
In 2017, DIR launched the Intramural Research Fellowship (IRF), a competitive research funding opportunity for NICHD postdoctoral, visiting, and clinical fellows. Its main objective is to promote grant writing among our intramural trainees, while enhancing awareness of the various components of an NIH grant application.
The IRF submission date is Friday, September 9, 2022.
For more information on the IRF, please visit NICHD Intramural Research Fellowships or email Dr. Erin Walsh (erin.walsh@nih.gov).
DUE NEXT MONTH: PRAT Program Applications Due October 3
Fellows in the NIGMS Postdoctoral Research Associate Training (PRAT) program receive three years of stipend support to conduct independent, mentored research in an NIH intramural laboratory. The PRAT application process is like the F32 Postdoctoral NRSA, and applicants who are already in the NIH intramural program may apply if they began postdoctoral training on or after July 1, 2021, and are a US citizen or permanent resident.
If you plan to apply in this application cycle, please contact Dr. Erin Walsh (erin.walsh@nih.gov) as soon as possible, as your application submission will be through the NICHD Office of Education.
The PRAT program is especially interested in ensuring the applicant pool reflects the diversity of the biomedical PhD talent pool, and strongly encourages applications from scientists in groups underrepresented in the biomedical sciences. For more information about the program, eligibility, and the NIGMS mission, please visit https://www.nigms.nih.gov/training/pages/prat.aspx.
NICHD Annual Postbac Seminar Series: Professional Development and Career Exploration
The next cycle of our Annual Postbac Seminar Series begins next month!
Currently there are approximately 100 postbacs conducting clinical and basic science research in our intramural laboratories. During your one or two years of training here at the NICHD, we want you to have an enriched research experience, while at the same time growing more prepared and excited about your chosen career path.
The year’s series will take place (virtually*) on Wednesdays, from 1 to 2 pm. The intent is to create a comfortable environment within a small group of peers to help postbacs improve their analytical skills as scientists, while expanding their knowledge of biomedical research and its relevance to human health.
This course also focuses on professional development:
- Learning how to present your science
- Exploring different career trajectories
- Meeting physicians and scientists from various clinical or research settings
- Preparing for the medical or graduate school application cycle (including interviews!)
* All sessions will be held via Zoom until NIH guidance permits in-person meetings.
Upcoming sessions (to take place from 1 to 2 p.m. unless otherwise indicated):
| Date | Speaker | Topic |
|---|---|---|
| October 5 | Public Speaking Coach, Scott Morgan | Speaking About Science: Giving Scientific Presentations |
| October 26 | Public Speaking Coach, Scott Morgan | Interviewing for Professional School |
Additional sessions will be announced in upcoming newsletter issues, and via email.
If you are interested in joining the class, please email Ms. Katherine Lamb (katherine.lamb@nih.gov) to register and let her know which sessions you plan to attend.
SAVE THE DATE! From Postdoc to Faculty: Successful Transitions to Academia
Thursday, October 13, 9–11 a.m.
Are you thinking about a career in academia? Often postdocs spend time crafting their future research program but are not introduced to important steps necessary for the successful transition to academia. Come learn these basics about navigating the academic job search process and important academic interviewing skills. Discover ways to prepare for success in academia once there (grants, mentoring & collaborations) and tips to avoid burnout.
This virtual seminar will be given by Dr. Paula Gregory, Associate Dean for Faculty & Educational Development in the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at the University of North Texas. Please email Ms. Veronica Harker (veronica.harker@nih.gov) if you are planning to join.
NIH UNITE: Ending Structural Racism (ESR) Activities
The NIH UNITE initiative was established to identify and address structural racism within the NIH-supported and the greater scientific community.
The ESR Intranet includes various resources like the Toolkit, Newsletter, FAQs, and other information.UNITE Milestones and Progress and the Co-Chairs Corner (public ESR webpages) are other avenues to stay informed on UNITE efforts.