“The idea of a Postdoc Appreciation Week originally comes from the United States,” says Lisa Groenendaal-van Weert, who became the first postdoc coordinator on the Nijmegen campus earlier this year. “Germany and the United Kingdom were already involved, and now the Netherlands is joining in for the first time. For me, this coincided nicely with my new role here at the Donders Institute.”
An essential, but often forgotten group
Postdocs are also important to the Donders Institute’s scientific excellence and innovation. They bring advanced expertise and creativity, drive complex research projects, and contribute to impactful discoveries. According to Groenendaal-van Weert, postdocs have a unique position. “They don’t have permanent contracts, but they are certainly no longer students. They are expected to perform at a very high level as young professionals: writing grants, supervising students, setting up new techniques.”
Postdoc Appreciation Week serves as an important step in supporting this group. “Postdocs often fall between the cracks. They invest a lot of time and energy without guarantees of a permanent position in academia. They also often lack a clear view of all the possibilities their skills can offer. That makes it extra important to recognise, support, and connect them.”
Connecting and looking ahead
The Donders programme during PAW offers a mix of workshops, inspiration sessions, and networking opportunities. “We have activities on wellbeing and career perspectives, but also practical workshops that help postdocs develop their societal impact and entrepreneurial skills,” Groenendaal-van Weert explains.
Equally important to her is connecting postdocs with one another. “I notice that many struggle with the same questions and insecurities. By sharing experiences and supporting each other, they realise they are not alone. That can be hugely motivating.”
Open to all postdocs in Nijmegen
Part of the programme is exclusively for Donders Institute postdocs, but many activities are also open to colleagues from Radboud University and Radboudumc, such as those organised by Radboudumc of PAW_NL. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to build connections not only within our institute, but across the campus,” says Groenendaal-van Weert.
Check out the full programme and register via Postdoc Appreciation Week.