Lab researchers have offered feedback about a desire for improved clarity and transparency about career paths and related processes in our scientific areas. This is especially the case for those in the earliest phases of their careers, such as postdocs and early career researchers, who have a strong sense of connection to the Lab but may not readily see opportunities for development.
A new office has been created to help address these needs. The Career Pathways office reports to Bill Johansen in Horst Simon’s office in the Lab Directorate. The staff contact for these projects is Meg Rodriguez, who has been managing the Lab’s postdoc program.
The goals of Career Pathways include:
- Career development that integrates graduate students, postdocs, and early-career scientists
- Advice on appointments and consistency of Lab policies for scientific and engineering staff
- Alignment with U.C. academic appointment policies
- Engagement with students and staff to foster alumni and to grow our talent pool
This change will be made in phases. In the first phase, the existing Postdoc Scholars Program and Early Career Enrichment Program will be brought together into the Pathways office.
In the second phase, the office will support scientist and engineer hires, as well as promotions and faculty appointments. This office will also support the Lab Staff Committee (LSC).
Future phases may include providing formal support for both our early-career scientists (non-postdocs) and graduate student researchers through onboarding and added professional development.
Horst Simon
Deputy Director, Research