Postdoc Academy course timetable
March 2024
| Fri 1 |
Resilient Leadership in Action is a nationally recognised, practical training programme delivered online in collaboration with several other institutions (including hosts King's College London and University College London). This programme offers a unique opportunity to reshape your ideas about being a leader and expand your leadership skills, supported by experienced coaches and fellow researchers from different disciplines and institutions. The programme will also help you to:
What happens during the course? This course will support you to develop a range of leadership skills through the act of applying them, rather than focusing on leadership theory. Activities The course is based around seven activities, the first six of which are designed to explore a different aspect of leadership and provide a practical insight into how leadership works. In the final activity, you will address a leadership activity that you can continue beyond the course. You will work with others in teams of six with a coach to help you make sense of the activities.
Buddies and home groups Throughout the course you will work alongside your "buddy", who is another course participant. Together you will share your experiences and provide mutual support, developing key co-coaching skills in the process. You will also have a “home group” where you consolidate your learning. Resilient leadership Underlying everything is the Resilient Leaders Elements, a framework you can use to support your learning. Application deadline is XXX |
| Tue 5 |
Mid-Contract Check-In for Postdocs
Finished
This event is for postdocs at the approximate mid-point (1-2 years) of a typical postdoctoral tenure in Cambridge (up to 5 years*). It has been designed specifically for this key career stage to help you position yourself for the next step in your career, in academia or otherwise. This interactive online session will cover:
This booking is provisional and will be approved once you have submitted the full registration form. The form has been designed to help you think about your experiences in Cambridge so far in advance of the session. The data you provide will help us to better understand the challenges, needs, and aspirations of postdocs at this stage of their careers. The deadline for registration and booking is 12pm on 26 February. *If you have been a postdoc for more than 5 years and this session is of interest, please get in touch: development.pda@admin.cam.ac.uk |
| Wed 6 |
Resilient Leadership in Action is a nationally recognised, practical training programme delivered online in collaboration with several other institutions (including hosts King's College London and University College London). This programme offers a unique opportunity to reshape your ideas about being a leader and expand your leadership skills, supported by experienced coaches and fellow researchers from different disciplines and institutions. The programme will also help you to:
What happens during the course? This course will support you to develop a range of leadership skills through the act of applying them, rather than focusing on leadership theory. Activities The course is based around seven activities, the first six of which are designed to explore a different aspect of leadership and provide a practical insight into how leadership works. In the final activity, you will address a leadership activity that you can continue beyond the course. You will work with others in teams of six with a coach to help you make sense of the activities.
Buddies and home groups Throughout the course you will work alongside your "buddy", who is another course participant. Together you will share your experiences and provide mutual support, developing key co-coaching skills in the process. You will also have a “home group” where you consolidate your learning. Resilient leadership Underlying everything is the Resilient Leaders Elements, a framework you can use to support your learning. Application deadline is XXX |
| Thu 7 |
Resilient Leadership in Action is a nationally recognised, practical training programme delivered online in collaboration with several other institutions (including hosts King's College London and University College London). This programme offers a unique opportunity to reshape your ideas about being a leader and expand your leadership skills, supported by experienced coaches and fellow researchers from different disciplines and institutions. The programme will also help you to:
What happens during the course? This course will support you to develop a range of leadership skills through the act of applying them, rather than focusing on leadership theory. Activities The course is based around seven activities, the first six of which are designed to explore a different aspect of leadership and provide a practical insight into how leadership works. In the final activity, you will address a leadership activity that you can continue beyond the course. You will work with others in teams of six with a coach to help you make sense of the activities.
Buddies and home groups Throughout the course you will work alongside your "buddy", who is another course participant. Together you will share your experiences and provide mutual support, developing key co-coaching skills in the process. You will also have a “home group” where you consolidate your learning. Resilient leadership Underlying everything is the Resilient Leaders Elements, a framework you can use to support your learning. Application deadline is XXX |
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Virtual Writing Retreats
Finished
Do you have a deadline coming up or a piece of writing that’s long overdue? Or maybe some data analysis that keeps slipping to the bottom of your to-do list? Our online retreats give you time, peace, and space to think and write. Each session will provide a friendly and constructive environment in which to meet like-minded peers, discuss challenges, and work in a focused way using the Pomodoro technique. These virtual retreats are being hosted collaboratively across several institutions to encourage researchers across career stages and institutions to come together in a sustainable writing environment. The retreats will take place several times per month throughout the academic year and you can attend as many as you like (within booking limits for each session). Please note: It is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, click on Add to Calendar to start the process of importing the course appointment to your calendar. |
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| Fri 8 |
Resilient Leadership in Action is a nationally recognised, practical training programme delivered online in collaboration with several other institutions (including hosts King's College London and University College London). This programme offers a unique opportunity to reshape your ideas about being a leader and expand your leadership skills, supported by experienced coaches and fellow researchers from different disciplines and institutions. The programme will also help you to:
What happens during the course? This course will support you to develop a range of leadership skills through the act of applying them, rather than focusing on leadership theory. Activities The course is based around seven activities, the first six of which are designed to explore a different aspect of leadership and provide a practical insight into how leadership works. In the final activity, you will address a leadership activity that you can continue beyond the course. You will work with others in teams of six with a coach to help you make sense of the activities.
Buddies and home groups Throughout the course you will work alongside your "buddy", who is another course participant. Together you will share your experiences and provide mutual support, developing key co-coaching skills in the process. You will also have a “home group” where you consolidate your learning. Resilient leadership Underlying everything is the Resilient Leaders Elements, a framework you can use to support your learning. Application deadline is XXX |
| Wed 13 |
In the increasingly competitive field of fellowship funding, your applications need to stand out immediately. During this online masterclass for early career researchers, you'll learn key considerations for preparing a strong fellowship application. The session will explore:
It will consist of a 60-minute talk, followed by 30 minutes for you to ask questions. Please note: It is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, click on Add to Calendar to start the process of importing the course appointment to your calendar. |
| Thu 14 |
Virtual Writing Retreats
Finished
Do you have a deadline coming up or a piece of writing that’s long overdue? Or maybe some data analysis that keeps slipping to the bottom of your to-do list? Our online retreats give you time, peace, and space to think and write. Each session will provide a friendly and constructive environment in which to meet like-minded peers, discuss challenges, and work in a focused way using the Pomodoro technique. These virtual retreats are being hosted collaboratively across several institutions to encourage researchers across career stages and institutions to come together in a sustainable writing environment. The retreats will take place several times per month throughout the academic year and you can attend as many as you like (within booking limits for each session). Please note: It is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, click on Add to Calendar to start the process of importing the course appointment to your calendar. |
| Fri 15 |
Virtual Writing Retreats
Finished
Do you have a deadline coming up or a piece of writing that’s long overdue? Or maybe some data analysis that keeps slipping to the bottom of your to-do list? Our online retreats give you time, peace, and space to think and write. Each session will provide a friendly and constructive environment in which to meet like-minded peers, discuss challenges, and work in a focused way using the Pomodoro technique. These virtual retreats are being hosted collaboratively across several institutions to encourage researchers across career stages and institutions to come together in a sustainable writing environment. The retreats will take place several times per month throughout the academic year and you can attend as many as you like (within booking limits for each session). Please note: It is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, click on Add to Calendar to start the process of importing the course appointment to your calendar. |
| Wed 20 |
Postdoc Welcome Event
Finished
The Postdoc Academy provides welcome events specific to postdocs joining the University of Cambridge - these are open to postdocs affiliated with the University, Colleges and University Partner Institutes. These sessions include presentations from the Postdoc Academy, PdOC, Careers Service and HR, followed by a Q&A and then themed networking. You will be given information on how to navigate life as a researcher in Cambridge and then have the opportunity to network with other new postdocs and University services. During the session, postdocs will learn about:
If you have any questions or problems with signing-up, please email welcome.pda@admin.cam.ac.uk. |
| Thu 21 |
Virtual Writing Retreats
Finished
Do you have a deadline coming up or a piece of writing that’s long overdue? Or maybe some data analysis that keeps slipping to the bottom of your to-do list? Our online retreats give you time, peace, and space to think and write. Each session will provide a friendly and constructive environment in which to meet like-minded peers, discuss challenges, and work in a focused way using the Pomodoro technique. These virtual retreats are being hosted collaboratively across several institutions to encourage researchers across career stages and institutions to come together in a sustainable writing environment. The retreats will take place several times per month throughout the academic year and you can attend as many as you like (within booking limits for each session). Please note: It is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, click on Add to Calendar to start the process of importing the course appointment to your calendar. |
| Fri 22 |
Virtual Writing Retreats
Finished
Do you have a deadline coming up or a piece of writing that’s long overdue? Or maybe some data analysis that keeps slipping to the bottom of your to-do list? Our online retreats give you time, peace, and space to think and write. Each session will provide a friendly and constructive environment in which to meet like-minded peers, discuss challenges, and work in a focused way using the Pomodoro technique. These virtual retreats are being hosted collaboratively across several institutions to encourage researchers across career stages and institutions to come together in a sustainable writing environment. The retreats will take place several times per month throughout the academic year and you can attend as many as you like (within booking limits for each session). Please note: It is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, click on Add to Calendar to start the process of importing the course appointment to your calendar. |
| Tue 26 |
Immigration Info Session for Postdocs
CANCELLED
With ever developing complexities in the UK’s immigration system, Graeme Ross, the University’s Head of Immigration for staff matters, conducts termly briefing sessions for non-UK postdocs holding UK visas. These commonly cover the ‘basic’ work visas, such as Skilled Worker and Global Talent, and how to switch into or extend these in order to remain in the UK. However additional guidance on applications for dependents and Indefinite Leave to Remain/Settlement is also covered. There will be an opportunity to ask questions about other immigration matters; not all of these may be answered on the day but would be followed up individually as needed. |
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Would you like to be more deliberate about what you say yes to, and become more confident at saying no? In this 90 minute interactive workshop, you will gain insights into:
You will have the opportunity to explore how you can apply the theory in practice, and to discuss the challenges of saying no in an academic setting. Please note: It is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, click on Add to Calendar to start the process of importing the course appointment to your calendar. |
April 2024
| Thu 4 |
Virtual Writing Retreats
Finished
Do you have a deadline coming up or a piece of writing that’s long overdue? Or maybe some data analysis that keeps slipping to the bottom of your to-do list? Our online retreats give you time, peace, and space to think and write. Each session will provide a friendly and constructive environment in which to meet like-minded peers, discuss challenges, and work in a focused way using the Pomodoro technique. These virtual retreats are being hosted collaboratively across several institutions to encourage researchers across career stages and institutions to come together in a sustainable writing environment. The retreats will take place several times per month throughout the academic year and you can attend as many as you like (within booking limits for each session). Please note: It is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, click on Add to Calendar to start the process of importing the course appointment to your calendar. |
| Tue 9 |
EJRA Postdoc Information Session
Finished
Are you interested in pursuing a lectureship and/or long-term career at the University of Cambridge? Then you may be interested in contributing to discussions about a review of the Employer Justified Retirement Age (EJRA) as one of the main aims is to provide opportunities for lectureships for early career researchers. A Retirement Policy and EJRA Review Group was set up by Council last year to consider whether the University’s current EJRA has been successful in meetings its aims and whether the terms of the University’s Retirement Policy remain fit for purpose. The group now wishes to give members of the University community an opportunity to hear about its findings and recommendations, ahead of a final version being considered by the University Council in April, and a full report being published after that meeting. A ballot of the Regent House on the report’s recommendations is scheduled for June 2024. To ensure that postdocs and early career researchers are able to contribute to these ongoing discussions, members of the postdoc community are invited to a dedicated online session. Speakers will include:
Please note: it is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, select Add to Calendar to start importing the appointment to your calendar. |
| Wed 10 |
Funders of academic research and employers of researchers are increasingly valuing individuals with entrepreneurial spirit and a broader set of skills that can be used to innovate and create impact from research. Researchers with these skills are at an advantage when applying for permanent academic positions, securing research funding, or pursuing commercialisation opportunities. This interactive session will introduce you to:
Please note: it is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, select Add to Calendar to start importing the appointment to your calendar. |
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Virtual Writing Retreats
Finished
Do you have a deadline coming up or a piece of writing that’s long overdue? Or maybe some data analysis that keeps slipping to the bottom of your to-do list? Our online retreats give you time, peace, and space to think and write. Each session will provide a friendly and constructive environment in which to meet like-minded peers, discuss challenges, and work in a focused way using the Pomodoro technique. These virtual retreats are being hosted collaboratively across several institutions to encourage researchers across career stages and institutions to come together in a sustainable writing environment. The retreats will take place several times per month throughout the academic year and you can attend as many as you like (within booking limits for each session). Please note: It is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, click on Add to Calendar to start the process of importing the course appointment to your calendar. |
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| Thu 18 |
Virtual Writing Retreats
Finished
Do you have a deadline coming up or a piece of writing that’s long overdue? Or maybe some data analysis that keeps slipping to the bottom of your to-do list? Our online retreats give you time, peace, and space to think and write. Each session will provide a friendly and constructive environment in which to meet like-minded peers, discuss challenges, and work in a focused way using the Pomodoro technique. These virtual retreats are being hosted collaboratively across several institutions to encourage researchers across career stages and institutions to come together in a sustainable writing environment. The retreats will take place several times per month throughout the academic year and you can attend as many as you like (within booking limits for each session). Please note: It is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, click on Add to Calendar to start the process of importing the course appointment to your calendar. |
| Fri 19 |
Have you ever walked into a meeting and questioned your right to be there? Or taken on a new job and then felt you weren’t really the right person for it? For many people, this is a common life experience and one which can be quite debilitating if left unchecked. This session focuses on identifying the set behaviours that are often referred to as ‘imposter syndrome’, and the implications they can have for yourself and your work environment. During this session, you will:
Please note: it is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, select Add to Calendar to start importing the appointment to your calendar. |
|
Virtual Writing Retreats
Finished
Do you have a deadline coming up or a piece of writing that’s long overdue? Or maybe some data analysis that keeps slipping to the bottom of your to-do list? Our online retreats give you time, peace, and space to think and write. Each session will provide a friendly and constructive environment in which to meet like-minded peers, discuss challenges, and work in a focused way using the Pomodoro technique. These virtual retreats are being hosted collaboratively across several institutions to encourage researchers across career stages and institutions to come together in a sustainable writing environment. The retreats will take place several times per month throughout the academic year and you can attend as many as you like (within booking limits for each session). Please note: It is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, click on Add to Calendar to start the process of importing the course appointment to your calendar. |
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| Mon 22 |
Virtual Writing Retreats
Finished
Do you have a deadline coming up or a piece of writing that’s long overdue? Or maybe some data analysis that keeps slipping to the bottom of your to-do list? Our online retreats give you time, peace, and space to think and write. Each session will provide a friendly and constructive environment in which to meet like-minded peers, discuss challenges, and work in a focused way using the Pomodoro technique. These virtual retreats are being hosted collaboratively across several institutions to encourage researchers across career stages and institutions to come together in a sustainable writing environment. The retreats will take place several times per month throughout the academic year and you can attend as many as you like (within booking limits for each session). Please note: It is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, click on Add to Calendar to start the process of importing the course appointment to your calendar. |
| Tue 23 |
Communicating your work well, through both writing and presenting, are important skills in any successful research career. Writing well doesn’t come naturally to most people - feeling comfortable writing powerful papers is something we can learn through theory and practice. Dr Anna Ploszajski's career is living proof of that! In this workshop, you will gain the skills you need to write confidently and engagingly to any future audience, be they professionals or the public. It will cover:
No prior experience of writing is required – this training is for everyone from folks who detest writing, to regular communicators looking to step up their game to the next level. Please note: it is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, select Add to Calendar to start importing the appointment to your calendar. |
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Communicating your work well, through both writing and presenting, are important skills in any successful research career. Presenting well doesn’t come naturally to most people - feeling comfortable giving strong presentations is something we can learn through theory and practice. Dr Anna Ploszajski's career is living proof of that! In this workshop, you will gain the skills you need to speak confidently and engagingly to any future audience, be they professionals or the public. It will cover:
No prior experience of presenting is required – this training is for everyone from folks who detest presenting, to regular communicators looking to step up their game to the next level. Please note: It is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, select Add to Calendar to start importing the appointment to your calendar. |
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| Wed 24 |
Pensions Explained for Postdocs
Finished
In this session, you will learn about:
The session will be delivered by Head of Group Pensions at the University of Cambridge, and there will be ample opportunity for asking questions. Please note: It is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, click on Add to Calendar to start the process of importing the course appointment to your calendar. |
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Virtual Writing Retreats
Finished
Do you have a deadline coming up or a piece of writing that’s long overdue? Or maybe some data analysis that keeps slipping to the bottom of your to-do list? Our online retreats give you time, peace, and space to think and write. Each session will provide a friendly and constructive environment in which to meet like-minded peers, discuss challenges, and work in a focused way using the Pomodoro technique. These virtual retreats are being hosted collaboratively across several institutions to encourage researchers across career stages and institutions to come together in a sustainable writing environment. The retreats will take place several times per month throughout the academic year and you can attend as many as you like (within booking limits for each session). Please note: It is important that when you book this course, on the booking confirmation page, click on Add to Calendar to start the process of importing the course appointment to your calendar. |