- Forum discussion
In 1999, a group of postdocs at the NKI/AVL, frustrated by lack of career perspectives initiated a discussion about their position in science.
"We would like to start discussions among postdocs at the NKI/AVL on topics like: how can universities and research institutions create a stimulating postdoc climate? What would you like to see your current employer provide you with in terms of skills training? How to work on your scientific survival skills? How to achieve tenure qualifications? Instructions on writing grants, research papers and landing a job, public speaking, management and internationalisation." | Read more >>
- First retreat, Hoeven 1999
In December 1999, these discussions resulted in the organization of the first NKI postdoc retreat.
"After reading the article "postdocs need more respect" in the September 3rd issue of Science, one might become pessimistic about the future and consider oneself a victim of poor career development by the research hierarchy. However, at this moment extraordinary leaps in life science and biotechnology are taking shape and we have the unique opportunity to be part of it." | Read more >>- Recommendations and suggestions
Based on the shared experiences from postdoc who had attended this first retreat, the Postdoc Committee NKI/AVL formulated a number of recommendations to the board of Directors and the Research Council
"A prominent topic at the Postdoc retreat held last December was that of the lack of career perspectives for Postdocs working at the NKI/AVL. In order to improve this situation, a number of suggestions were made to improve training- and prospects of postdoctoral scientists." | Read more >>- Reply from the director
Anton Berns, the director of research, responded with the establishment of a Senior Postdoc position within the NKI/AVL.
"A senior postdoctoral position is a "career development" position within the NKI/AvL. It is a temporary appointment affording greater responsibilities and independence than that of a standard post-doctoral position. This position should facilitate the transition to an independent position outside the institute." | Read more >>- Second retreat, Texel 2000
In 2000, the second postdoc retreat took place and continued what the first had started.
"This second retreat on the island of Texel provides an opportunity for you to set aside your daily business and think about your future. The theme of this meeting is development of the researcher as a postdoc and beyond." | Read more >>- Discussion points
The 2000 retreat again resulted in a number of recommendations towards the NKI/AVL staff to further improve the situation for postdoc at the institute. [Dutch]
"Er kan worden geconcludeerd dat het NKI minder aantrekkelijk voor post-docs is dan andere instellingen. De post-doc commissie wil hierbij een aantal zaken onder de aandacht van de BVO brengen die hierbij een rol kunnen spelen en suggesties voor verbetering aandragen." | Read more >>
