博后申请的步骤和技巧：研究方向？什么样的导师才是大牛？如何了解导师的经费情况？申请时间？申请信怎么写？面试内容？如何准备？面试后的注意事项（postdoc application)【TT YaYa】

Summary

This video provides a comprehensive guide to securing a postdoctoral position, focusing on essential steps such as selecting a research direction, finding suitable mentors, and preparing strong application materials. The speaker emphasizes the importance of starting the search early, crafting a direct and professional application email, obtaining solid recommendation letters, and thoroughly preparing for interviews. Key advice includes focusing on storytelling in seminars, building rapport with lab members, and following up after interviews. Finally, the video touches on negotiating start dates and housing arrangements once an offer is received.

Takeaways

• 😀 Decide on your postdoc's research direction and location early to target the right opportunities.
• 😀 Research potential postdoc advisors by exploring faculty pages and funding sources on university websites.
• 😀 Use databases like NIH Reporter or the National Academy of Sciences to narrow down PIs in your field.
• 😀 Personalize your application email with a clear subject line (e.g., Postdoc Application) and mention your current research and interest in the advisor's lab.
• 😀 Attach your CV and highlight any notable publications to make your application stand out.
• 😀 Include your PhD advisor's letter of recommendation and choose other referees who can provide strong, positive references.
• 😀 Postdoc interviews often involve presenting a seminar, so prepare a story-driven presentation that emphasizes your research’s significance and challenges overcome.
• 😀 Do your homework on the lab's recent publications and be prepared with thoughtful questions about the lab culture and management style.
• 😀 Start searching for postdoc positions 6 months before your PhD defense to accommodate paperwork and possible delays, especially if you are an international student.
• 😀 Be proactive and follow up with a thank-you email after the interview, and don't hesitate to inquire about the timeline for an offer.
• 😀 Housing options at universities may be available for postdocs, so plan ahead and explore housing through the university's housing office.

Q & A

What is the first step in finding a postdoc position according to the transcript?

The first step is to determine your research direction and preferred geographical location for the postdoc. You can aim for a related but distinct area from your PhD research, like moving from ion channel functionality (PhD) to ion channel structure (postdoc).

How can you identify potential postdoc advisors (PIs) at universities?

You can visit the faculty page on university websites, where you will find a list of professors. Each name usually has a link to their lab's homepage, which provides information about their research focus, current and past funding, and sometimes the career paths of former lab members.

Why is the funding history of a potential postdoc advisor important?

A PI's funding history indicates their financial stability and ability to support postdoc positions. It is crucial to ensure that the lab has the necessary resources to hire new researchers.

What resources can help in the postdoc search, specifically for biological research?

You can use websites like NIH’s Reporter (https://reporter.nih.gov/) to check a PI’s funding and publications. Additionally, databases like the National Academy of Sciences and HHMI (Howard Hughes Medical Institute) can help you search for PIs by research area and location.

When is the best time to start searching for a postdoc position?

It is recommended to start searching for a postdoc about six months before your PhD graduation. For international students, this timeline should be extended to account for visa and other paperwork processes.

What should the subject line of a postdoc application email be?

The subject line should be direct and clear, such as 'Postdoc Application,' so the potential advisor immediately understands the content of the email.

What should be included in the body of a postdoc application email?

The email should introduce yourself, mention your current PhD research, express interest in the postdoc position, and highlight why you’re a good fit for the lab. Attach your CV and, if appropriate, a few key publications that showcase your work.

What are the most important recommendation letters for a postdoc application?

The most important recommendation letter is from your PhD advisor. The other two can come from collaborators or committee members who are familiar with your research and work ethic.

How should you prepare for a postdoc interview?

You should prepare a seminar presentation, ideally focusing on a research story rather than technical details. Be ready to answer questions about your PhD work, anticipate potential future directions of your research, and prepare responses to questions about your research's challenges and findings.

What kind of questions should you ask during a postdoc interview?

You should ask questions about the lab's working hours, management style, and the overall culture. If you're concerned about specific work conditions, like late-night or weekend work, it's a good idea to ask subtly to get a better understanding.