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Putting PhDs to work: career planning for today's scientist
Jennifer A Hobin1, Philip S Clifford, Ben M Dunn
1American Association for Cancer Research, Washington, DC 20005 Medical Scientist Training Program and Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294.
CBE Life Sciences Education
|March 5, 2014
Summary
Individual development plans (IDPs) aid research trainees in career exploration. While beneficial for postdocs and mentors, low awareness and institutional encouragement limit their widespread adoption and use.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical research training
- Career development in science
Background:
- Individual Development Plans (IDPs) are promoted nationally for research trainees.
- Limited information exists on the practical application and utilization of IDPs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine awareness and usage of IDPs among postdoctoral researchers and mentors.
- To identify the benefits of creating an IDP.
- To explore strategies for facilitating IDP use.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to current/former postdoctoral researchers, mentors, and postdoctoral administrators.
- Participants were recruited through professional organizations and institutional email lists.
Main Results:
- Over 80% of administrators were familiar with IDPs, but less than 50% of postdocs and 20% of mentors were aware.
- IDP creation helped postdocs identify necessary career skills and improved mentor-trainee communication.
- Awareness and utilization of IDPs remain low among trainees and mentors.
Conclusions:
- IDPs offer significant benefits for postdoctoral researchers and their mentors in career planning and communication.
- Low awareness and lack of institutional/mentor encouragement hinder IDP adoption.
- Increased institutional support and mentor engagement are crucial for promoting IDP utilization.
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