Postdoctoral positions can often be relatively short term meaning you should keep a keen eye on your career and plan how you will make the next step. There are a number of tools for this and mechanisms within the department and university where you can find help.
At the start of you appointment you will be placed on a probationary period which can vary in length depending on your contract. After this period you should have an annual appraisal which acts as a formal reporting of the year’s progress. This should be supplemented by more regular progress meetings and updates with your line manager such that the appraisal is a summary conversation and nothing should come as a surprise. The main focus of the appraisal is therefore looking forward and outlining what the main objectives are for the year ahead. Some of these will be focussed on the projects you are working on, but you should also include development objectives that will enhance your career opportunities.
The appraisal therefore provides a space and opportunity to discuss your career aspirations and any development needs you may have to reach those goals. Use this opportunity to actively plan for your career and seek advice on what is an appropriate. Make the most of these opportunities for an extended discussion on what your career goals are.Ìý
The contains many useful resources for career development, and coming career development events are posted in the .
The has a dedicated with lots of useful information and helpful advice to apply for funding, and a with lots of useful recordings.
The School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering has a strong history of supporting outstanding Early Career Researchers to develop their own independent research programme through application for Fellowships, see further details on the Fellowship webpage.
The bulletin is sent by email and covers events related to the Faculty of Engineering & Physical Sciences (FEPS), research funding notices, training updates, and the latest news from across our Schools and the University.

Vitae is the leader in supporting the professional development of researchers. It is a non-profit programme which works to enhance the skills and careers of researchers. There are many events and services open to postdoctoral researchers through this organisation, definitely worth a visit. Visit .

The Royal Society is an independent scientific academy of the UK and Commonwealth and is dedicated to promoting excellence in science. Through their website you can find events, access to grants such as University Research Fellowship and Dorothy Hodgkin fellowships Royal Society, schemes and awards and interesting scientific reading and updates.
Visit
Visit

Celebrate the excellence of women at the cutting edge of scientific research.
Visit

is a non-profit organization that supports science and technology education. Recognizing the link between science, technology, and socio-economic development, as well as the key role of education in realizing individual potential, the Schlumberger Foundation flagship program is Faculty for the Future.

offer STEM professionals the opportunity to return to a research career after a break of two or more years for a family, health or caring reason. It is the opportunity to balance a personalised retraining programme with a challenging research project, held in a supportive UK university or research establishment.
The University cannot accept responsibility for external websites.