Expand your professional skills and prepare for your career!
This program will grow your Queen’s network and will complement your academic development.
The 2026/27 Certificate in Professional Development for Postdocs program is currently in preparation. Further information about the program, including workshops, schedules, and registration details, will be available soon on this website and will be circulated through the postdoctoral newsletter (sign up here).
Designed to support the professional growth and career development of postdoctoral scholars, the program recognizes the importance of dedicated professional development in building skills, broadening career opportunities, and preparing for the diverse career paths available to researchers. The program provides opportunities to learn, connect, and develop practical skills alongside the research expertise gained through postdoctoral training.
Upcoming Professional Development Events for Postdocs at Queen's University
Explore academic and non-academic career pathways through two engaging events designed exclusively for Queen’s postdocs! Hear from experienced professionals, learn from their career journeys, and gain insights into translating your skills and expertise into diverse professional settings.
📅 November 18 | 1:00–2:30 p.m. | In person
Postdocs Meet Faculty: Career Journeys & Insights
Connect with Afrouz Hojati, Assistant Professor of Digital Technology at Smith School of Business, and Nida Ali, Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology, to discuss their career journeys and gain perspectives on academic career development.
📍 Alan G. Green Fireplace Reading Room, Stauffer Library
🔗 Register: https://www.queensu.ca/grad-postdoc/apps/prof-dev/
📅 December 8 | 1:00–2:30 p.m. | Online
Beyond Academia: Postdocs, Paths & Possibilities
Hear from Heena Mistry, Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at Wilfrid Laurier University, and David Yuzva Clement, Senior Research Advisor at Public Safety Canada’s Canada Centre for Community Engagement and Prevention, as they share their experiences transitioning beyond faculty roles and explore career opportunities beyond academia.
💻 Online via Zoom
🔗 Register: https://queensu.zoom.us/meeting/register/k6u0IfHQTWOsw6podKufEA
Whether you’re pursuing an academic career or exploring opportunities beyond academia, join us to learn, connect, and discover new possibilities!
Additional Resources
Completing a Professional Development Plan (PDP) will help you achieve success during your fellowship by identifying areas for further growth and skills development. While completion of a PDP is not a mandatory program element, it is strongly recommended. You can find samples here:
- Queen’s IDP
- Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) IDP
- myIDP Science Careers
- The National Postdoctoral Association (US-based) provides a guide to using an IDP.
Participants are also strongly encouraged to share their research through the following:
- School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs Research Showcases
- Grad Chat radio show
- The Conversation
- Three-Minute Research