OGPS Academic Careers Fall 2025

Navigating the academic job market can be challenging, but understanding the process is the first step toward success. This session will provide an overview of how faculty searches work, what committees look for in candidates, and how to prepare for each stage of the process. You will learn strategies to organize your search, manage timelines, and approach the market with confidence.

Workshop Goals

By the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Describe the structure and timeline of the academic job search process.
• Identify what search committees value when reviewing applications.
• Recognize key milestones (applications, interviews, campus visits) and how to prepare for each.
• Develop a personal plan to approach the academic job market strategically.

A postdoctoral position can be a vital step toward launching an academic career. This session will guide you through the process of finding, applying for, and securing a postdoc that aligns with your research interests and career goals. You will learn how to identify opportunities, connect with potential mentors, and prepare strong application materials.

Workshop Goals

By the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Explore strategies for identifying potential postdoc opportunities.
• Reach out to and evaluate potential mentors and research environments.
• Prepare tailored CVs and emails for contacting faculty about postdoc positions.
• Understand the factors to consider when selecting the right postdoc for your goals.

Your CV and cover letter are key components of an academic job application. This session will focus on how to present your qualifications, research expertise, and teaching experience in ways that resonate with search committees. Through examples and guided activities, you will learn how to structure your documents, highlight your strengths, and tailor materials for specific positions.

Workshop Goals

By the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Identify the key elements of an effective academic CV.
• Distinguish between research-focused and teaching-focused CVs and tailor accordingly.
• Write a compelling cover letter that highlights fit with the department and institution.
• Incorporate accomplishments using the WHO method (What, How, Outcome).

The research statement is one of the most important, and challenging, parts of an academic job application. In this session, you will learn how to craft a statement that communicates the significance of your past work, your current projects, and your vision for future research. You will also explore strategies for demonstrating independence, feasibility, and alignment with institutional priorities.

Workshop Goals

By the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Define the purpose and audience of a research statement.
• Structure a statement that clearly communicates motivation, significance, and impact.
• Highlight research accomplishments and future directions effectively.
• Balance technical detail with accessibility for a broad faculty audience.