The National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) will hold a workshop entitled "Advancing Biomedical Research Workforce Diversity: NIGMS Workshop for Postdocs Transitioning to Independent Positions," on March 11-12, 2010, on the NIH campus in Bethesda, Maryland.
The workshop will explore each of the steps post docs may need to take in the transition to their first independent positions. The workshop will cover all stages of this transition process from identifying the institutions that best fit their needs, to preparing for the job search, negotiating a start-up package, setting up a laboratory, applying for research funding, and receiving tenure. Although the focus of the workshop is on academic positions, participants will also have an opportunity to learn about scientific careers in industry, government, and other areas that utilize their scientific training. As suggested by the meeting title, the workshop will emphasize special aspects of the transition process as they apply to post docs with diverse backgrounds, especially those from groups underrepresented in the biomedical and behavioral sciences. The workshop will include speakers with varied backgrounds and personal experiences.
A draft agenda for the meeting.
Due to our desire to provide a personal and meaningful experience for all participants, attendance at this meeting is limited. Attendees will be selected through a Web-based registration process that will give priority to those applicants who anticipate completion of their postdoctoral training within the next year and whose career plans would benefit from this workshop. Participants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. The registration form must be completed by November 2, 2009. Individuals selected to attend the workshop will be reimbursed by NIGMS for travel and per diem expenses.
