Postdoc-to-PI Symposium 2026

Postdoc-to-PI Symposium at Penn State Chemistry (Apply Here)

Monday, August 31 & Tuesday, September 1, 2026

The "Postdoc-to-PI Symposium at Penn State Chemistry" is a two-day workshop/symposium and professional development opportunity for postdoctoral scholars aspiring to careers as independent faculty members. Our program is designed to simulate key components an on-site interview experience, including the following: 

• A seminar on the your current research

• One-on-one meetings with our faculty

• An optional presentation about the your future, independent research plans

The program organizers will compile and deliver constructive feedback from our faculty in writing. These activities are designed to provide a realistic interview experience in a low-pressure environment. In addition, we hope to build relationships with postdoctoral scholars early in the academic hiring cycle. 

There are no fees to participate in this program. All expenses for travel will be reimbursed, and hotels/meals are sponsored by Penn State. Our program is supported by the Equal Opportunity Planning Committee of Penn State, with matches from the Eberly College of Science and the Department of Chemistry. Information about the Equal Opportunity Planning Committee can be found here: http://equity.psu.edu/eopc/overview

Applications (apply here) open Thursday, July 9, 2026 – they will be reviewed on a rolling basis starting Monday, July 27, 2026 and will close on Friday, August 14, 2026 at midnight EDT.

Eligibility

a. Postdoctoral fellows who study chemistry (broadly defined) and are planning to apply for tenure-track faculty positions at research-intensive (i.e., R1) institutions.

b. We are striving to promote success for all chemists, so no one should feel discouraged from applying, irrespective of past or current challenges.

c. Contact Eric Nacsa if you have further questions.

Application

Apply Here