Finding a Postdoctoral Mentor

Don’t just look for advertised positions. Be proactive in finding a postdoctoral mentor that will be a good fit for you. Ask questions of your graduate advisor and colleagues. Introduce yourself to potential mentors at scientific meetings.

In choosing a laboratory, consider:

• Publication history – number, type of journals
   
• Number of past postdocs - where are they now?
   
• Number of present postdocs/grad students
   
• Is the research topic something that you are passionate about?
   
• Is this a group that is moving the field along?