National Postdoctoral Association

Providing a national voice and seeking positive change for postdocs.
Postdoc Association Leaders

The NPA is committed to fostering the development of resources for postdocs at the institutional level, through the formation and maintenance of postdoc associations (PDAs), offices of postdoctoral affairs (PDOs) and the establishment of related programs and services.  Postdocs need guidance and support that are accessible within their own institutions, ranging from career counseling, to obtaining health coverage, to conflict resolution.

 

The NPA provides resources and guidance to institutions on the best ways to provide support services for postdocs.  These mechanisms include:

  • RCR Toolkit: Online toolkit for developing a dynamic and effective program on the responsible conduct of research (RCR) directed at postdocs;

  • The Bring RCR Home Project: Bring RCR Home offers support and seed funding to PDOs and PDAs interested in establishing responsible conduct of research (RCR) programming for postdocs at their home institutions;

  • The Postdoc Leadership Mentoring Project:  This project provides support and structured mentoring for leaders of new or revitalized Postdoc Offices and Associations;

  • PDO Toolkit and PDA Toolkit: Online toolkits with guidelines for establishing and maintaining an effective postdoc association and postdoc office;

  • PDO/PDA Database: Online database listing of PDOs and PDAs throughout the U.S.;

  • Technical assistance: The NPA offers assistance and support to the leadership of PDOs and PDAs through email and phone consultations.  ;

  • NPA Team Visit Program: Outreach visits to local institutions to provide intensive guidance in addressing complex structural and systemic issues;

  • Postdoc and Administrators/Faculty Clearinghouses: An online clearinghouse of resources and information for postdocs and their allies on a variety of issues, including career development, mentoring, and the transition to independence;