This week is my 1 year labaversary – it’s been 1 year as a postdoc in Danica Fujimori’s lab at UCSF and I’m super grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to train further as a scientist in a supportive environment with fantastic colleagues. If anyone’s wondering what a postdoc is…
“Postdoc” is short for postdoctoral scholar, researcher, fellow, etc. (exact title varies depending on where you’re at, where your funding comes from, etc.). It’s someone who’s earned their PhD and has now gone to train further in another lab before they start their own lab or get some other “career-y” job.
As a postdoc you can pick up new skills, branch out into new research areas, etc.
You have more (mentored) independence & more responsibilities (multiple projects, mentoring students, etc.)
The term “postdoc” can also refer to the position itself. So, somewhat confusingly, a postdoc does a postdoc..
It’s really important to find a supportive lab and I’m so glad I did! I sincerely hope that I have proven to be a valuable addition.
for more postdoc-related posts: https://bit.ly/gradpostdocetc
P.S. here’s a nice resource from the NIH: “Postdocs’ Guide to Gaining Independence” https://www.niaid.nih.gov/grants-contracts/postdoc-guide#laying%20the%20groundwork
YouTube: https://youtu.be/B_bAnqUQKAU
