Postdoctoral positions provide teaching and research experience to recent graduates of doctoral programs.
Postdoctoral teaching and research fellowships are widely available in the majority of academic fields. These positions can enhance a young scholar's transition from graduate student to faculty member by providing opportunities for networking, publication, and service to the academy. Considering these advantages, finding a postdoctoral position can be a valuable stepping stone in the development of your academic career. Obtaining one of these teaching or research fellowships requires strategic preparation and planning because often, hundreds of equally qualified junior scholars will have applied for a single opening.
Instructions
1. Look for advertised positions in online and print sources published by respected scholarly societies within your specific field. Also, search general academic job websites such as Higher Ed Jobs, the National Postdoctoral Association, and the Chronicle of Higher Education. You can refine your search for positions by selecting a specific region, metropolitan area, or date posted.
2. Speak with a faculty mentor from your graduate program about your intention to pursue a postdoctoral position. Sometimes, senior faculty members are aware of postdoctoral opportunities that are not listed in print or online sources. Even if your mentor cannot offer you a lead to a potential job, he/she may be able to assist you in networking with other scholars who can give helpful guidance.
3. Use social networking tools to promote your scholarship. If you use Facebook or any other website which displays your personal information to the public, make sure your profile has a professional appearance. Remove any photos, text, or videos that could lead a potential employer to doubt your suitability for an academic job. Add your teaching and research experience, conference presentations, publications, and other contributions to the academy.
4. Send your curriculum vitae with a cover letter to every institution to which you are applying. If you are applying for a teaching position, be prepared to send sample syllabi and assessments upon request. Modify the content of your documents as needed to promote yourself as the ideal candidate for each position. For example, if one position involves more research than teaching, emphasize your experience by including the research section on the first page of the curriculum vitae you send to that institution.
5. Practice for job interviews. Be prepared to discuss your dissertation and future research plans at length. Be ready for questions about how your research fits into the larger conversation and controversies within your field. If you are applying for a teaching position, give some thought to how you would explain your pedagogical approach.
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