Our mission as the OU Office of Postdoctoral Affairs (OPA) is to create and support a university-wide community and culture that enriches the postdoc experience at OU.
Established in Fall 2020 (PDF announcement), the OPA helps to support postdoc onboarding and professional development and provides community and support for postdoctoral researchers and their mentors. The OPA is housed within the Graduate College to take advantage of the synergies possible by leveraging the professional development, community, and support resources provided for graduate students, and it involves close lines of communication with the Provost’s Office and Office of the Vice President for Research and Partnerships. In late June 2024, the University announced (PDF announcement) the new Postdoctoral and Training and Development Policy, effective July 1, 2024. Additional policy-related guidance and onboarding information is available in the Associations and Guidance section below.
We are available to consult with faculty and postdocs on challenging situations and provide support to postdocs who are experiencing obstacles to their success. Please contact us if you need a consultation.
The OPA guidance for postdoc mentors and appointing units document povides guidance for expectations in mentoring, evaluation of postdoc researchers, use of postdoc researcher titles, and other topics.
More information on OPA guidance document may be found here.
OU is a sustaining member of the National Postdoc Association which qualifies graduate students and postdocs for free affiliate memberships.
To sign up for your free affiliate membership, please visit their registration site and select one of these options
Continue registration using your OU email address
It is the mission of the OU Postdoc Association (PDA) to address issues of the OU Norman postdoctoral community. By bringing postdocs together and providing useful resources, OU PDA hopes to create a welcoming environment that helps postdocs further their careers.
For more information contact The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.
NCFDD is an independent professional development, training, and mentoring community of faculty, postdocs, & graduate students from over 450 colleges and universities.
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Held year-round, the Wellness Series supports graduate students and postdocs in building the habits and mindset that help them thrive both personally and professionally. Sessions focus on stress management, self-management, mindfulness, and maintaining motivation during demanding times—providing practical tools that make it easier to stay engaged, balanced, and effective in their work.
Offered each fall, this series equips graduate students and postdocs with practical tools and strategies for exploring and securing careers in industry. Participants learn how to create strong résumés and cover letters, identify and articulate transferable skills, navigate job boards, and build professional networks. The series also provides guidance on preparing for interviews and negotiating job offers, helping participants approach the job market with confidence and clarity.
EXPAND is a dynamic professional development program offered every fall and spring, designed to equip graduate students and postdocs for success in their chosen careers. The program features five micro-credentials, each focused on a key area of professional growth. Participants receive individualized preparation and guidance, empowering them with the tools and confidence needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market.
For more information, visit Professional Development.
Hosted each spring, this miniseries is designed for those preparing to enter academia. Workshops guide participants in developing strong CVs, personal statements, and key application materials, including research and teaching statements, while also introducing relevant academic job boards. The series provides practical preparation for first-round and on-campus faculty interviews, including job talks, and offers strategies for navigating and negotiating job offers with confidence.
