In 2004, the US National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) set out to identify and recommend postdoctoral 'best practices', a document the NPA issued in 2005. We suggested things such as standardized classification, establishing postdoctoral offices and implementing specific policies regulating appointments.rnIn releasing these best practices, the NPA asked research institutions to develop specific competencies crucial to a successful training experience. In response, institutions challenged us to develop guidelines, a draft of which was presented at the NPA annual meeting held in April. We believed that the dramatic change in the number and demographics of US postdocs made targeted training vital. And we expect these competencies will help postdocs and their mentors in developing rational career plans.
展开▼
