Join a Postdoc Network UT committee/working group
The Postdoc Network UT is growing, and we want to do more for our community. The board cannot do it all alone. We also know we do not always represent every postdoc's interests. That is why we are setting up four committees, and we are looking for postdocs to join them.
What you get
- Hands-on experience in leading and organising, which UT expects of a postdoc profile
- The chance to work with colleagues across UT, including the Grant Office, HR and university leadership
- A small budget for your committee to organise events
- A board member who supports you and backs your decisions
- A free two-year membership of the network. We will slowly introduce a membership fee, and members can attend most network events for free.
- A look at how the network works from the inside, which is a good first step if you would like to stand for the board in a future election
The committees
1. Grow (Academic Careers & Grants)
Grow helps postdocs build a career in academia.
As a member, you could help to:
- Organise small-group grant writing workshops for schemes such as NWO XS and Open Mind
- Work with the UT Grant Office on early call alerts and info sessions for postdocs
- Share information on teaching and the University Teaching Qualification (UTQ/BKO)
- Invite faculty to talk about the academic job market and applying for permanent positions
2. Bridge (Careers Beyond Academia)
Bridge helps postdocs explore careers outside academia.
As a member, you could help to:
- Invite alumni and industry partners to talk about their career paths
- Organise visits and info sessions with companies, start-ups and public organisations in the region
- Share information on starting a company or spin-off from UT research
- Prepare practical information on the zoekjaar (orientation year) visa
3. Connect (Community & Support)
Connect brings postdocs together and helps newcomers settle in.
As a member, you could help to:
- Plan monthly social drinks, meet-and-greets and cultural activities
- Build the network website and run our social media
- Share members' research through the website and social media
- Collect practical resources such as onboarding checklists, housing information and HR contacts
- Share sublet and housing opportunities within the community
4. Voice (Advocacy & Representation)
Voice makes sure postdoc concerns are heard at UT.
As a member, you could help to:
- Support the work of the social safety officer at UT
- Gather input from postdocs so we represent the whole community
- Raise relevant issues with UT leadership, HR and trade unions
- Explore funding for the network, such as the UT Diversity & Inclusion Fund or registered association status
How to join
New and long-standing postdocs are equally welcome, and no prior experience is needed. Expect to commit around 3 to 4 hours a month to support the planning and running of events. Send an expression of interest email to post-doc-network@utwente.nl with the committee that interests you.
We look forward to hearing from you.