Advancing your career at MPIPZ
Since January 2019, postdocs at the MPIPZ benefit from a new career development programme, which aims to support postdocs in their professional development and help them pursue their individual career goals. The programme is structured around four key areas of support:
- Career Development Dialogues
- Training
- Career counselling and Coaching
- Networking and Mentoring
Career Development Dialogues
Postdoctoral career development dialogues provide a formal opportunity for postdocs to articulate their career plan and to receive structured feedback. These meetings are intended to:
- Support focused career planning
- Empower postdocs to take proactive steps
- Encourage open communication between postdocs and supervisors
More detailed information about postdoctoral Career Development Dialogues are provided by the Postdoc Coordinator on a regular basis.
Training
The training programme offered by the MPIPZ and the Max Planck Society (Max Planck Gesellschaft | MPG) includes a wide range of training opportunities that promote individual development of essential skills at different stages of the postdoctoral journey, in line with long-term career goals.
Early career postdocs need to acquire skills to achieve early independence, to gain visibility within the international research community in their respective fields, and to build confidence in presenting their research. The training programme provides support in terms of research and technical skills, professional presentation skills at international conferences, and navigating the peer review process.
During the advanced postdoctoral phase, the focus of training evolves to include the development of leadership, management and conflict management skills. Further attention is given to the successful acquisition of third-party funding and preparation for faculty or industry appointment procedures.
Throughout the whole postdoctoral period, our programme emphasizes the development of broad professional skills, including networking, career planning and management, and recruitment processes. This integrated approach provides researchers with the skills, insights, and professional networks they need to succeed in their career.
Career counselling and coaching
Postdocs at the MPIPZ can benefit from on-site counselling. In one-to-one sessions, postdocs can explore different career options in order to make informed decisions about their career planning. These confidential sessions provide practical support with CVs, applications, and interview preparation, as well as access to self-assessment tools. In addition, postdocs can benefit from a centrally funded coaching programme. This programme supports postdocs in self-reflection and personal growth, helping researchers to align their career choices with their individual strengths, values, and life goals.
Networking and Mentoring
MPIPZ offers many opportunities for postdocs to interact with professionals from a wide range of backgrounds. Career talks and networking events bring together current researchers, alumni, and invited guests to share insights and experiences. An alumni database is maintained to facilitate networking and mentoring opportunities.