Postdoctoral Education

2007-2008 ACADEMIC YEAR

August 6, 2007

Spotlight on Science

"Making the Most of the Postdoc Years"

Beryl Lieff Benderly, MA
Postdoctoral Affairs Columnist
Science Careers (An Online feature of Science Magazine)

The realities of today's academic job market and funding outlook create significant challenges for postdocs seeking to move ahead in their careers. Understanding the background and current position of postdocs in the scientific scene can help early-career scientists make useful and realistic plans and decisions concerning their futures. Based on years of reporting on postdoc affairs for the Science magazine website, the talk will aim to help postdocs ask the questions and get the information they need. It will also offer suggestions about how faculty members and mentors can better collaborate with their postdocs in meeting these challenges.

August 12, 2007

6th Annual Postdoc Picnic

Enjoy a picnic with your family, other postdocs and the Office of Postdoctoral Education. There will be plenty of food, drinks and fun to go around.

Noon - 4:00 PM
Root River Parkway, Area #1

The picnic will be held rain or shine. If it rains, please bring your favorite card game or board game. We are also asking that you bring along fruit or dessert to pass around.

August 20, 2007

Spotlight on Science

"Practicing Intellectual Property Law: A Patent Prosecutor's Perspective"

Jonathan M. Fritz, MS, JD
Patent Attorney
Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C.

Intellectual Property (IP) is a narrow practice area within the U.S. legal field. However, an IP attorney can specialize in various areas including both patent and trademark prosecution and litigation. The discussion will include different career paths for IP attorneys as well as provide an overview of the type of projects performed.

September 4, 2007

Outstanding Woman Postdoctoral Researcher Award - Application Deadline

The Office of Postdoctoral Education is pleased to announce that on November 1, 2007 one female postdoc will be recognized as the recipient of the Edward J. Lennon, MD Outstanding Woman Postdoctoral Researcher Award. This award will include recognition plus a monetary award of $1000. In order to apply for this award you must be a female postdoctoral fellow at MCW or affiliated institution with less than 5 years total as a postdoctoral fellow (includes previous institutions if applicable). You must also be nominated by your PI with a letter of support (only one nomination per PI). Finally, if you are selected as the recipient of this award, you must be present at the awards luncheon on November 1, 2007.

Click here for the application. Please submit application and letter of support to the Office of Postdoctoral Education no later than 5pm today. If you have any questions, please email Catie Bauer.

September 24, 2007

Spotlight on Science

"Getting Started in NIH Supported Research: What Postdocs and Grad Students Should Know about NIH and its Grant Programs"

Richard Okita, PhD
Program Director, Division of Pharmacology, Physiology, Biological Chemistry - National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Co-Director, NIGMS Pharmacology Research Associate Training (PRAT) Program
Program Director for NIGMS Institutional Clinical Pharmacology Training (T32) Grants and NIGMS Pathway to Independence (K99/R00) Awards

Understanding how NIH works can be critical in getting your research career started. It is not too early for postdocs and grad students to learn about NIH and its grant mechanisms to support different stages of your research career. This seminar will discuss new grant mechanisms to support investigators earlier in their career in both basic and translational research as well as some thoughts about starting your faculty career.

October 4, 2007

17th Annual Research Poster Session

You're Invited!

The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and the Office of Postdoctoral Education present the 15th Annual Research Poster Session. Graduate students and postdoctoral fellows will present posters highlighting their research from 4-6 PM in the Alumni Center.

Graduate student poster awards and hors d'oeuvres/refreshments will be provided by the Medical College of Wisconsin/Marquette Medical Alumni Association.

If you are presenting a poster please put it up at 3:30 PM. I will be there to direct you to your poster's location.

October 15, 2007

Spotlight on Science

"Industry Interviews"

Stacy Berghammer, MS
Program Coordinator for Career Counseling
Graduate School & Postdoctoral Education

This session includes how to prepare, what to expect and common mistakes to avoid in industry interviews.

October 26, 2007

Put Your PhD to Work: A Career Symposium for Scientists

For details and to register, please visit www.mcw.edu/phdsymposium.

November 12, 2007

Spotlight on Science

"From Idea Conception to Market: How Crackheads® Candy Grew in Wisconsin"

John Osmanski
Partner/Owner of Osmanium, LLC

I started a small confections business based on an idea while in college. Years later we sell our product all over the United States and continue to grow. This has been an excellent learning experience and regardless of what you may think, starting and operating a fruitful business doesn't have to be difficult. -John Osmanski

Spotlight on Science

"Non-Research Careers for Scientists in the Biotechnology Industry"

Rick Salatino, M.S.
Manager, Scientific Training Department
Promega Corporation

Rick Salatino has worked in the biotechnology industry for 15 years, as a research scientist, a technical service scientist and as a learning and training professional. He will speak about the diversity of jobs in industry for graduates and post-graduates

December 7, 2007

December 10, 2007

Spotlight on Science

December 17, 2007

Spotlight on Science

"Political Science… or How Lay Publics Form Opinions About Stem Cell Research"

Dietram Scheufele, PhD
Professor of Life Sciences Communication, and
Journalism & Mass Communication
University of Wisconsin—Madison

Traditional science communication efforts continue to focus on the idea that their main goal is to educate the public. Unfortunately, cut these approaches against more than 60 years of research in the social sciences, a body of work that suggests citizens prefer to rely on their social values to pick and choose information sources that confirm what they already believe, often making up their minds about a topic in the absence of knowledge. Based on recent empirical research, this talk outlines some key lessons for effective communication with lay audiences. In particular, it suggests that scientists must learn to focus on presenting their messages in ways that connect with diverse audiences. This means remaining true to the underlying science, but drawing on research to tailor messages in ways that make them personally relevant and meaningful to different publics. The stakes are high. If scientists and their organizations are not effective in getting their messages across, then others will be.

January 14, 2008

January 28, 2008

Spotlight on Science

“How to Choose the Right Postdoc Opportunity for You”

Jim Kerschen, PhD
Coagulation Biology
Blood Research Institute

We will discuss what the up and coming areas in science are and go through the
thought process of choosing the right Postdoc. I will also discuss my process and
journey that put me where I am today.

February 11, 2008

Spotlight on Science

“Industry or Academics? What You Should Know Before You Take A Job”

Stephen B. Ruble, PhD
Boston Scientific Corporation

Stephen Ruble is a former tenured professor who transitioned into biomedical research in the private sector. Topics of discussion will include salaries, work load, expectations, career opportunities, risk profile, professional growth, dislikes and much more. There will be a short presentation followed by an interactive and lively discussion.

February 25, 2008

Spotlight on Science

“Marketing to Life Scientists – Fun, Hard Work or Simply Non-Sense”

Andy Bertera
VP, Global Marketing
Promega Corporation

Is a career in marketing within the life science market a direction that you would like to consider? If not now, perhaps in the future? The speaker will cover the pros and cons of making this move, discussing what it is like to move away from the bench into this line of work.

March 3, 2008

Postdoc Town Hall Meeting

-Discuss Postdoctoral Activities
-Tell Us What You Want
-Meet Postdocs from Other Departments
 

March 10, 2008

Spotlight on Science

“What Recruiters Know and You Should Too”

Megan Gallagher
Sr. University Recruiting Specialist
Abbott Laboratories

The recruitment process is pretty nebulous and difficult to understand as a potential candidate. Ms. Gallagher will help to demystify the entire process by describing how things work on the business side of the job search. Topics such as resume review process, involvement of hiring managers, and tips on building your resume will be covered.

March 24, 2008

Spotlight on Science

“Applying for Your First Faculty Position: What You Need to Know and Why”

Stephen B. Gauld Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Allergy and Immunology
Department of Pediatrics

The transition from being a postdoctoral fellow to first time faculty member can be a trying time. In this seminar Dr. Gauld will present an overview of the process and share his experiences.

April 14, 2008

Spotlight on Science

“Funding Your Postdoctoral Position: A NIH Study Section Perspective”

Joseph C. Besharse Ph.D.
Marvin Wagner Professor and Chair
Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy

April 21, 2008

Spotlight on Science

“Life after the Lab: Medical Writing at a Contract Research Organization”

Nicole Maciolek, PhD
Medical Writer
Covance Global Clinical Pharmacology

Not sure about what to do with your PhD? Medical Writing can be an option for you. The talk will focus on how to make the transition from the lab to a career in writing. Learn what it takes to be a medical writer and about the opportunities available at contract research organizations.

April 22, 2008

 Professional Development Workshop

“Getting it All Done on Time – Without Stress”

Time pressure, feeling the urgent need to get everything done that needs to be done, in a timely fashion, is one of modern man’s greatest stress-makers. In this workshop you will learn a simple, practical four-step method for managing your time to make sure that you accomplish what you want to and need to. We will examine common time wasters and how to block them. The focus will be on “working smarter, not harder” so you can achieve more and be less harried. Each participant will be guided to develop an individualized personal plan for improving his own time management.

Martin Seidenfeld, PhD
Dr. Martin Seidenfeld has 30 years experience as a clinical psychologist, organizational consultant, and university professor. He is known for his popular Boise radio call-in program (where he was known as Dr. Marty), his book (Talk About Stress), and for seminars he has presented in all fifty states, Canada, Europe and South America.

2006-2007 ACADEMIC YEAR

August 13, 2006

5th Annual Postdoc Picnic

Enjoy a picnic with your family, other postdocs and the Office of Postdoctoral Education. There will be plenty of food, drinks and fun to go around.

Noon - 4:00 PM
Root River Parkway, Area #1

The picnic will be held rain or shine. If it rains, please bring your favorite card game or board game. We are also asking that you bring along fruit or dessert to pass around.

August 21, 2006

Spotlight on Science

Session #1: "Effective Email: No More :)"

Suzann Gardner
Associate Professor, Education
Alverno College

The Email of yesterday is not the Email of today. The telegraph style has moved beyond the clever quick note to a more formal type of communication. Come to learn new Email etiquette.

August 28, 2006

Spotlight on Science

Session #2: "Business Letter Writing: Writing Letters That Get Attention"

Suzann Gardner
Associate Professor, Education
Alverno College

Effective business relies on professional letter writing. Although we use Email a great deal, the art of effective letter writing is an important skill for every professional. Come to refresh your knowledge of multiple business letter formats and letter writing styles. We want your letters to get attention.

September 18, 2006

Spotlight on Science

"Extreme Makeover - MCW Edition"

Philip S. Clifford, PhD
Associate Dean for Postdoctoral Education
Professor of Anesthesiology & Physiology

Do you need a makeover to prepare you for the next stage in your career? An individual development plan is a framework for planning a successful and satisfying career. This seminar will get you started on creating a career plan that takes into account your individual interests and expectations.

September 25, 2006

Spotlight on Science

"Young Professionals of Milwaukee (YPM): Helping to Create a "Region of Choice" that Attracts World Class Talent"

Mick Mancuso
Sourcing Manager
Rockwell Automation

Katie Peschel
Deputy Director
Young Professionals of Milwaukee

Find out about the organizational benefits that include:
-Learning about the Milwaukee Region
-Growing a more diverse network
-Gaining recognition as a leader

October 16, 2006

Spotlight on Science

"Translating Advanced Degrees: Identifying Your Transferable Skills"

Rebecca Bryant
Assistant Dean and Founding Director of the Graduate College Career Services Office
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Graduate School and postdoctoral study are challenging processes that develop a variety of skills sought after by employees in in a variety of fields. Join us for this interactive workshop to help you identify these skills, learn how to most successfully articulate these competencies to employers, and take the first critical steps torward powerful, persuasive resumes, CVs, and interviews

 October 27, 2006

Put Your PhD to Work: A Career Symposium for Scientists

For details and to register, please visit www.mcw.edu/phdsymposium.

November 12, 2006

Spotlight on Science

"Finding Your Life's Balance!"

Stacy Berghammer, MS
Program Coordinator for Career Counseling
Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Office of Postdoctoral Education

As the holiday season approaches... research deadlines, family pressures and holiday parties place an even greater demand on our time and energy. Your career success, as well as your health, depends on whether you can release stress and unwind. Learn effective resources and tools to cope with the increasing life pressures.

6th Annual Postdoc Holiday Party

Join us on Friday, December 2, 2005 at 6:00 p.m. in the Alumni Center. Dinner, drinks, and dessert will be provided by the Office of Postdoctoral Education. Please bring a non-perishable food item to share with the needy in the community. There will also be special activities for young children.

Spotlight on Science

"From Inside the Lab to Inside the Beltway: Careers in Science Policy."

Carrie D. Wolinetz, PhD
Director of Communications - Office of Public Affairs
Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology

Find out if a career in science policy is right for you! Carrie Wolinetz, Ph.D., is Director for Communications for the Office of Public Affairs at the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB). Dr. Wolinetz works on a portfolio of science policy issues on behalf of FASEB, including the use of animals in research, cloning and stem cells, homeland security, and federal funding of research. In this seminar, she will discuss careers in science policy & government affairs for scientists: how she ended up in Washington; how she works with scientists and policymakers on issues important to researchers; and how current graduate students and postdocs can pursue opportunities in science policy.

Spotlight on Science

"Biotechnology Training"

Kurt Zimmerman
Associate Director, Master of Science in Biotechnology Program
University of Wisconsin-Madison

The Master of Science in Biotechnology at UW-Madison produces leaders prepared to advance technologies from discovery to commercialization through a synthesized study of science, business, policy and law. The "Wisconsin Biotechnology Fellows" program, a new initiative of the program, will offer a similar opportunity for post-doctoral researchers who seek to learn more about the commercial applications of research while completing their postdoctoral experience.

Spotlight on Science

Spotlight on Science

"CSHS: Strengthening Science Literacy"

Jeffrey DeGlopper
Science Educator
Center for Science, Health and Society

The Medical College of Wisconsin's Center for Science, Health and Society (CSHS) is dedicated to strengthening science literacy and fostering public engagement in science and health policy development through research, education, and citizen deliberation.  Come find out how you can make a change in the lives of the Milwaukee-area youth and in turn gain teaching experience.

Postdoc Town Hall Meeting

- Short Report on What Stacy Berghammer, MS; Career Counselor Does/Provides -
- Discuss Postdoctoral Activities at MCW -
- This is Your Chance to Tell Us What You Want -
- Opportunity to Meet Postdocs from other Labs -

Speaking about Science Workshop

Scott Morgan
Director, Premiere Public Speaking

Scott Morgan has been teaching presentation skills for over 10 years to a variety of clients including the National Institutes of Health, Merck, NASA, and several universities (Duke, Cornell, Maryland, Minnesota, UNC Chapel Hill).  He has co-authored the book Speaking about Science published by Cambridge University Press (2006).

Speaking about Science is an interactive workshop that addresses the main issues of good scientific presentations.  The core of the workshop is a 7-step preparation process that ensures a clear and engaging talk for a variety of audiences.  Topics include: Identifying the thema and focus, how to create effective visual aids and how to bigin and end a talk.

 Spotlight on Science

"Fraud, Plagiarism & Authorship: Issues in the Responsible Conduct of Research"

Timothy F. Murphy, PhD
Professor of Philosophy in the Biomedical Sciences
Department of Medical Education
University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago

Despite the fact that scientific method works to expose fraud and misrepresentation, some researchers have committed serious lapses in presenting their work, including a South Korean researcher who falsified reports dealing with sensitive cloning and stem cell research.  While the representation of data remains of central significance in research ethics, other issues have been less well studied, including standards of authorship, conflict of interest, and sanctions for ethical lapses.  This talk will explore the significance of moving toward a more robust theory of research ethics, one centered on the responsible conduct of research.

Spotlight on Science

"Constructing a Resume and Cover Letter"

Stacy Berghammer, MS
Program Coordinator for Career Counseling
Graduate School & Postdoctoral Education

The academic job search requires a curriculum vitae, yet career opportunities within a non-academic setting require a resume and a clear understanding of the skills non-academic employers are seeking. This seminar will discuss the differences between the curriculum vitae and the resume, how to market your transferable skills in resume format, and suggestions for formatting and self-promotion. Cover letter writing will also be discussed.  Please bring along your current CV and/or cover letter to make alterations within the presentation.

Spotlight on Science

"Transitioning from Academic and Research Environments to the Medical Science Liaison Role in Pharma"

Stan Rane, PhD
Regional Scientific Associate Director – Neuroscience
Novartis Pharmaceutical Corporation

This session will cover similarities and contrasts between the academic and corporate environments, skill sets and experiences which are valued in the industry setting, responsibilities in the MSL role and career paths.

Spotlight on Science

"A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Arkansas: Insights from the Interview Trail"

Heidi Kluess, PhD
Instructor
Department of Anesthesiology

Come hear about the trials and tribulations of academic and industry interviewing from a personal perspective.

Spotlight on Science

"Networking"

Heather Sevener, MS
Assistant Director for Graduate Services, Biological and Physical Sciences
University of Chicago

This presentation will include the common misconceptions about networking, tips and tricks for wallflower types, and information on growing and maintaining your network.

2005-2006 ACADEMIC YEAR

4th Annual Postdoc Picnic

Noon - 4 PM
Root River Parkway, Area # 1

Enjoy a picnic with your family, other postdocs and the Office of Postdoctoral Education. There will be plenty of food, drinks and fun to go around.  This year we've rented a corn roaster, so get ready to enjoy roasted corn on the cob!

Thanks for participating.  See you next year!

Spotlight on Science

"Translating Basic Science into Clinical Medicine"

Spotlight on Science

"Advance Directives:  Living Wills and Powers of Attorney for Healthcare"

Cindy Morgenweck, MD MA
Assistant Clinical Professor of Bioethics

Should you have one?

Spotlight on Science

"Fueling the Economic Engine of Southeastern Wisconsin through Biomedical Technology"

William R. Hendee, PhD
Dean of the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences
President of the MCW Research Foundation

A wealth of biomedical knowledge exists in Southeastern Wisconsin, but it is not easily recognizable because it is dispersed among many institutions and companies.  Compiling this knowledge into an identifiable form is part of the mission of the Biomedical Technology Alliance of Southeastern Wisconsin. This compilation and its ability to energize collaborative research and technology transfer into the commercial sector has the potential to help fuel the economic engine of the region for the future.

15th Annual Research Day Poster Session

You're Invited!

The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and the Office of Postdoctoral Education present the 15th Annual Research Poster Session.  Graduate students and postdoctoral fellows will present posters highlighting their research from 4-6 PM in the Alumni Center.

Graduate student poster awards and hors d'oeuvres/refreshments will be provided by the Medical College of Wisconsin/Marquette Medical Alumni Association.

If you are presenting a poster please put it up at 3:30 PM.  I will be there to direct you to your poster's location.

Spotlight on Science

"Working Safely with Research Chemicals"

Mike Wild
Aldrich Chemical Company

Most research chemicals have not had their properties thoroughly investigated. Hazard information, such as that found on MSDSs and labels, is generic in nature, written for potentially large quantity exposures, and is definitely not written with the research scientist in mind. This presentation will attempt to assist researchers in evaluating the hazards associated with the chemicals they work with and help them use that information to determine appropriate safe guards

Spotlight on Science

"Immigration Options for Professionals"

Tom Hochstatter and Kelley Chenhalls
Immigration Attorneys
Hochstatter, McCarthy and Rivas

Foreign nationals require visas granted by the Department of Immigration to study and work in the United States. The regulations governing visas are often complicated but it is important that foreign nationals be aware of both their rights and duties. This presentation will provide with general visa information and rules, and procedures involved in applying for work visas and permanent residency.

Spotlight on Science

"What Does it Really Take to be an Entrepreneur?"

Teresa Esser
Author, The Venture Café

Entrepreneurs are people who can forge ideas into innovations. What does it really take to start a company and succeed in the marketplace? Ms. Esser's popular book "The Venture Café" highlights the challenges, the passion and the survival spirit it takes to make it happen. Ms. Esser will share with us the secrets, strategies and stories from America's high-tech entrepreneurs.

5th Annual Postdoc Holiday Party

Join us on Friday, December 2, 2005 at 6:00 p.m. in the Alumni Center. Dinner, drinks, and dessert will be provided by the Office of Postdoctoral Education. Please bring a non-perishable food item to share with the needy in the community. There will also be special activities for young children.

Spotlight on Science

"A Market Based Approach - Marketing Ideas in the Workplace"

Tim Peterson
Business Counselor
Small Business Development Center University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

The presentation will attempt to give the participants a feel for how a marketing professional might approach strategies in the workplace. The talk will focus on a couple of themes from marketing and look at their application in somewhat non-traditional environments.

Spotlight on Science

"Academic Career Opportunities: Lawrence Fellows in the Liberal Arts and Sciences"

Peter Glick, Ph.D.
Professor of Psychology
Lawrence University

Graduate training often fails fully to prepare the future professoriate for the rigors of an academic career as a teacher-scholar. The Lawrence Fellows program bridges this gap by providing talented recent PhDs with a 2-year teaching-research fellowship in a liberal arts setting. Lawrence Fellows have a reduced teaching load, allowing them to develop as teachers while preserving time to establish themselves as independent scholars. A faculty development and mentoring program aims to promote excellence in both teaching and scholarship, so that the fellowship fosters a successful transition from graduate school to an academic career.

Spotlight on Science

"MCW Libraries' Tips for Medline Searching"

Karen Hanus
M.L.I.S., Access Services Manager

Felicia Vastalo
M.S.L.I.S., User Education/Reference Librarian

Medline, the premier database for searching the biomedical literature, is probably used by most everyone in the health care and health research environment.  But, there are multiple search systems for accessing the information in Medline and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

In this session we will highlight some of the differences between Ovid and PubMed, offer tips on searching, and discuss other resources that the library has available.

Spotlight on Science

"Mentoring Revisited"

Deb Simpson, PhD
Associate Dean / Professor, Academic Affairs Educational Services

The Office of Postdoctoral Education will now be accepting travel award applications.  The deadline to submit applications is by 5:00 PM on March 1, 2006.

Spotlight on Science

"Frustrated with the Job Search?"

Stacy Berghammer, MS
Program Coordinator for Career Development
Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Postdoctoral Education

Come hear about helpful tips and tools to make the search easier.  Find out where to look, how to start and how to stay motivated.

Spotlight on Science

"You Don't Get What You Want - You Get What You Negotiate"

Moira Kelly, MS
President, Kelly Consulting LLC
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Law at the Marquette University Law School
Kelly Consulting specializes in workplace dispute resolution and organizational effectiveness.

This seminar will explain what to do- and not to do- to increase your ability to achieve a satisfactory outcome in any kind of negotiation.  Emphasis will be on the practical realities of negotiating in all aspects of your professional life.  Knowing what traps to avoid and what to do will increase your confidence level when you are bargaining.

Spotlight on Science and Public Speaking Workshop

Stuart Anstis, PhD
Professor of Psychology
University of California, San Diego

Stuart is a fantastic public speaker himself, and people flock to his talks at conferences even if his research (on visual perception) isn't directly related to their own.  Karen Gunther (post-doc in ophthalmology) took the all-day version of Stuart's workshop in graduate school and highly recommends his workshops.

The seminar will help you prepare an effective talk and address how to deliver it successfully.  He will pay particular attention to differences in giving a 10 minute research talk versus giving a 1 hour job talk.

The workshop will cover as many of the following topics as time allows.  When you RSVP for the workshop, please list your top three choices from the following, so Stuart can start with the most-needed topics.

1)  How to be heard
2)  How to explain things
3)  How to present yourself
4)  Starting a talk
5)  Question time
6)  Using Slides and PowerPoint
7)  Preparing a poster for a conference
8)  The 10 minute conference talk vs. the 1 hour job talk
9)  Time management
10) Crisis management and mob control  

Spotlight on Science

Town Hall Meeting

- Short Report on What the Office of Postdoctoral Education Does/Provides -
- Discuss Postdoctoral Activities at MCW -
- This is Your Chance to Tell Us What You Want -

Spotlight on Science

"Conflict in the Workplace: Avoid it or Deal with it?"

Kristi Willkum, MS
Director of Advising and Career Development
Mount Mary College

This one hour interactive seminar will help you to identify your preferred method for addressing conflict.  You will have the opportunity to learn the five most common conflict resolution strategies, pros and cons of each strategy and communication techniques for executing those strategies.

Spotlight on Science

"Effective Interviewing Strategies"

Melanie V. Sinche, MA
Director, Office of Postdoctoral Services
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

In this seminar, we will discuss what to expect in the job interview, effective interviewing techniques, the job offer, and negotiating strategies.

Spotlight on Science

"Read My CV!  Cover Letters That Lead To Interviews"

Stacy Berghammer, MS
Program Coordinator for Career Development
GraduateSchoolof Biomedical Sciences and Postdoctoral Education

Suzann Gardner
Associate Professor, Education
Alverno College

Listing your credentials is not enough.In this one hour seminar, you will be introduced to the expectations of cover letter readers.An engaging cover letter will get you noticed and in an interview.

Postdoc Social Gathering

4-6PM in the MCW courtyard.

Beer, soda and snacks will be provided...come ready to relax and socialize!

Spotlight on Science

"Insights from the Academic Interview Trail"

Heidi Kluess, PhD

Postdoctoral Fellow, Anesthesiology

Gopal Periyannan, PhD

Postdoctoral Fellow, Biophysics

The presenters will share their experiences interviewing for academic positions

Spotlight on Science

"The Image of Success: Professional Etiquette Today"

Debra Chomicka, MA
Director, Career Education Center
Alverno College

The "rules" of etiquette lubricate the wheels of social interaction; when you know what is expected, you can increase your comfort in social and business situations, and build your professional image.  This session will provide an overview of today's American business etiquette and how you can convey professionalism and competence to colleagues, patients, and peers.

Spotlight on Science

"Creating a Retirement Roadmap"

Joe Dailey
Regional Consultant
Fidelity Investments

At this seminar you will hear about how you can get started on creating your own roadmap for retirement.  The presentation will address evaluating your current situation, defining your end goal and building a financial plan for life after work.  It will also introduce you to Fidelity's resources and investment strategies to help you keep your retirement plan on track.

This seminar will help you consider key questions as you plan toward retirement success:

- How much will you need for retirement?

- Are you saving enough?

- What steps should you consider?

- Do you have the right investment mix?

- What investments may help you get there?

- Are your savings keeping pace?- Have your circumstances changed?

2004-2005 ACADEMIC YEAR

Spotlight on Science

"Part One: How to be Part of a Team"

Lawrence Kahn, JD, BBA
Founder and Executive Director, Strategic Resolutions, LLC.
Professor, School of Business Administration
UW Milwaukee and Cardinal Stritch University

3rd Annual Postdoctoral Picnic

2 PM - 6 PM (Food served at 4 PM)
Root River Parkway, Area # 1

Enjoy a picnic with your family, other postdocs and the Office of Postdoctoral Education. There will be plenty of food, drinks and fun to go around.

Thanks for participating.  See you next year!

Spotlight on Science

"Part Two: How to be Part of a Team"

Lawrence Kahn, JD, BBA
Founder and Executive Director, Strategic Resolutions, LLC
Professor, School of Business Administration
UW Milwaukee and Cardinal Stritch University

Spotlight on Science

"A Lab with a View:  Doing a Post Doc Abroad"

Cheryl Stucky, PhD
Assistant Professor of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy
Vaughn Jackson, PhD
Associate Professor of Biochemistry

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live and work in another country?  If so, a post doc abroad might be the thing for you!  Come and listen to the first hand account of two professors who have done it!

Spotlight on Science

"Talking Biology:  Teaching Outside the Book and the Lecture"

Dan Klionsky, PhD
Abram Sager Collegiate Professor of Life Sciences
National Science Foundation Distinguished Teaching Scholar
University of Michigan

Is the lecture dead?  Why do most people still try to teach using a method that was most useful before the invention of the printing press?  Lecturing promotes passive learning, but active learning is critical if students are going to be trained to think outside of the classroom.

SPECIAL NOTE:
Immediately following the seminar there will be a roundtable discussion for those who are particularly interested in teaching careers.  This is your opportunity to ask questions that might require a more lengthy explanation, including suggestions for how to write a teaching philosophy.

14th Annual Research Poster Session

You're Invited!

The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and the Office of Postdoctoral Education present the 14th Annual Research Poster Session.  Graduate students and postdoctoral fellows will present posters highlighting their research from 4-6 PM in the Alumni Center.

Graduate student poster awards and hors d'oeuvres/refreshments will be provided by the Medical College of Wisconsin/Marquette Medical Alumni Association.

Spotlight on Science

"The Road to the Presidency Goes Through the Lab: The 2004 Elections and "Political" Science"

Gary Kline
Legislative Analyst
FASEB Office of Public Affairs

The 2004 elections are shaping up to once again be close and controversial. Come to an open discussion of today's hot science topics and the role they could play in the upcoming Presidential and Congressional elections.

Spotlight on Science

"Research Training and Career Development Opportunities at the NIH"

Joan Schwartz, PhD
Assistant Director of Intramural Research
National Institutes of Health

Dr. Schwartz will review the organizational structure of the NIH, comparing and contrasting the intramural and extramural components.  She will describe the variety of training opportunities for scientists from high school to postdoctoral and the types of career development programs that the NIH provides for its scientists.

Spotlight on Science

"Know Thyself:  Planning for Your Ideal Future Career"

Bill Lindstaedt, MS
Director, Career Center
UC-San Francisco Health Science Campus
San Francisco, California

The most successful careers don't just happen -- they are carefully planned to create the ideal fit between personality, values, skills and interests. Participants in this seminar will reflect on their past achievements, take stock of their current status, and learn about the next steps toward planning for that ideal future career.  Whether your plans include academia, industry, government, business, or some unknown path, you will benefit by participating in this interactive seminar.

4th Annual Holiday Party

Join us on December 3, 2004 at 6:00 p.m. in the Alumni Center. Dinner, drinks, and dessert will be provided by the Office of Postdoctoral Education. Please bring a non-perishable food item to share with the needy in the community. There will also be special activities for young children.

Spotlight on Science

"You're Hired! Now What? Getting started as an assistant professor."

Candice Klug, PhD
Assistant Professor of Biophysics

Brian Volkmann, PhD
Assistant Professor of Biochemistry

Interested in a faculty position? What can you expect as a new
hire? How long does it take to set up a lab? How hard is it to get that first grant?
These questions and more will be addressed by two MCW Assistant Professors who
will share their experiences on entering the academic world as new faculty.

Spotlight on Science

"Six Sigma and its Application in Science and Industry"

Steve Fleming, PE and Lowry Manson, PhD
SigMax Solutions LLC (Milwaukee, WI) partnered
with Milwaukee School of Engineering

Six Sigma is a widely used business process improvement methodology that is finding increasing application in science and medicine.  Initially started as a quality improvement process at Motorola, the Six Sigma methodology drives process improvements by using data to make better customer based decisions.  Steve Fleming and Lowry Manson will discuss the origin, philosophy, and methodology of Six Sigma and its application in science and industry.

Spotlight on Science

"Science and Medicine at the Medical College of Wisconsin:  Serving Our Community through Education"

MCW Center for Science Education - Angela Davre, Patricia Godsell, Andrew Stone, Suzette Svoboda-Newman, and Katie Williams

Scientific activities at the Medical College of Wisconsin are exciting and ever-changing.  Often times, the community may not know about your endeavors, much less your enthusiasm for what you do.  Come learn how the Center for Science Education transfers science from the bench top to aspiring young scientists and the curious public.  We will discuss how you can get involved, practice your teaching, and share your scientific expertise.  Bring your imagination and a willingness to learn.  We will be doing a hands-on activity.

Spotlight on Science (Sponsored By E&J Gallo Winery)

"Science and the Quest for the Perfect Beverage:  A Primer on the Chemistry of Beer and Wine"

Phillip K. Chou, PhD
Senior Research Chemist, E&J Gallo Winery
Modesto, CA

Aroma, flavor, and color define the quality of beer and wine.  Understanding the chemistry of these attributes is essential to producing high quality beverages with the desiered aroma/flavor/color profiles.

Spotlight on Science

"Scientific Isolationism in War on Terror"

Thomas May, PhD
Associate Professor, Bioethics

The fear of bioterrorism is increasing scientific isolationism in the U.S., resulting in restrictions on publication, access to 'select' agents, and the training of scientists from specified countries.  This talk will examine the implications of these activities for science and medicine.

Spotlight on Science

"Genomics in the Future of Science"

Howard Jacob, PhD
Warren P. Knowles Chair of Genetics
Director, Human and Molecular Genetics Center
Professor, Department of Physiology

Spotlight on Science

"How to Choose a Postdoctoral Position"

The majority of doctoral recipients in the life sciences continue their training in a postdoctoral fellowship.  What are the most important considerations in choosing the right position for you?  Three members of the Postdoctoral Advisory Committee will share their insights on how to make this important decision.

Spotlight on Science

The NIH Grant Review Process

David Gutterman, MD
Northwestern Mutual Professor of Medicine
Vice Chair of Medicine for Research
Associate Director, Cardiovascular Research Center

Spotlight on Science

"From Patents to Patients"

Carl R. Clark, PhD
Director of Marketing & Licensing
MCW Research Foundation

How does an idea become a product? What is a patent? How can you profit from your discoveries? These and other questions will be answered by the Medical College of Wisconsin Research Foundation (MCWRF).

MCWRF supports scientific research at MCW and improves healthcare by moving inventions discovered at MCW from the bench to the bedside. We accomplish this endeavor through patenting novel ideas, licensing these ideas to healthcare companies, and forming spin-off companies that expand our local economy.

Postdoc Town Hall Meeting

Spotlight on Science

Open Forum with the Dean

Michael J. Dunn, MD
Dean and Executive Vice President

Spotlight on Science

"Peer Review Process and Scientific Publication"

Joseph C. Besharse, PhD
Chairman and Professor of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy

Spotlight on Science

"Scientific Creativity: The Integration of Product, Person and Process Research Traditions"

Dean Simonton, PhD
Professor of Psychology
University of California, Davis

Scientific research requires creativity, but what is the basis for creativity in science?  Professor Simonton will discuss two divergent psychological approaches to the study of scientific creativity - the person and process perspectives - then suggest that these two views can be integrated by introducing yet a third approach, namely the study of the product. This leads to a combinatorial model that explicates the key features of creativity in science including the distribution of productivity across and within careers, the structure of high-impact research programs, the personality characteristics and developmental backgrounds of influential scientists, and the distinctive circumstances surrounding scientific discovery.

Spotlight on Science

"Everyday Negotiations"

Renee A. Meyers, PhD
Professor and Director of Graduate Studies
Department of Communications
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Negotiation is woven into the daily fabric of our lives. Most of us are involved in some type of negotiation every day. We negotiate daily tasks and vacation spots with family members, job duties and requests for support with colleagues and supervisors.Many individuals do not know how to negotiate, but this is a skill which can be learned.In this session, we will explore your negotiating style, various models of negotiation, and ways to negotiate more effectively.

2003-2004 ACADEMIC YEAR

2nd Annual Postdoctoral Picnic

2 PM - 6 PM (Food served at 4 PM)
Root River Parkway, Area # 1

Enjoy a picnic with your family, other postdocs and the Office of Postdoctoral Education. There will be plenty of food, drinks and fun to go around.

See you there...RAIN or SHINE

Spotlight on Science

"Interviewing Strategies"

Sherri Pfennig, MS
Senior Counselor, Career Development Center at UWM

Be ready for a fast paced and thought provoking seminar on interviewing strategies. Sherri Pfennig will be introducing you to a new, more empowered perspective on interviewing and its components. She will also introduce you to some concrete tools that, when used, can be most effective in as interviewing situation. 

Spotlight on Science

"Part 1: Diagnosing Conflict"

Lawrence Kahn, JD, BBA
Founder and Executive Director, Strategic Resolutions, LLC.
Professor, School of Business Administration
UW Milwaukee and Cardinal Stritch University

Understanding the cause of an ailment is often essential to its cure; understanding conflict is essential to top-notch negotiating. In this first of a two-part workshop on negotiating skills, we will research the foundations of conflict and start the process of building an effective negotiation strategy. 

Spotlight on Science

"Part 2: Curing the Fear of Negotiating"

Lawrence Kahn, JD, BBA
Founder and Executive Director, Strategic Resolutions, LLC.
Professor, School of Business Administration
UW Milwaukee and Cardinal Stritch University

The second of a two-part workshop of negotiating skills will focus on tips and methods that build your negotiating style and confidence. The workshop incorporates conflict theory into interactive negotiating exercises.

Spotlight on Science

"Six Steps to Financial Independence"

Michael Arnow, CPA, CFP
Owner and Founder of Arnow & Associates, a CPA Firm

How much house can you afford? How much car? What is the best way to finance your student debt? What will it cost to educate your children? How much should you save for retirement?

CPA and Financial Advisor Mike Arnow will address these and other questions. You may have seen Mike on Wednesday mornings on WTMJ (Channel 4) or you may have heard him on Public Radio.

Research Poster Session

The goal is to highlight research performed at MCW by postdoctoral fellows and graduate students in a relaxed atmosphere which promotes discussion of our science with colleagues. Hors d'oeuvres and drinks will be served

Please plan on participating! This does not have to be a new poster created solely for this event - you can display one that you presented at a meeting last spring or summer. If you wish to display a poster, you need to register by September 17 by emailing Catie Bauer. The following information is needed:

Your name and degree
Your preceptor's name and degree
Title of your poster

For those participating, setup time is from 10 am to 12 noon on October 2. the poster board dimensions are 4 ft. wide x 8 ft. high (please note that this is narrower than the poster boards at most conventions). The viewing time is from 4 pm to 6 pm. Please have your poster removed by 7 pm on October 2.

Spotlight on Science

"Balancing Professional and Personal Life"

Cheryl Stucky, PhD
Associate Professor, Cell Biology, Neurobiology & Anatomy

Paula Traktman, PhD
Chairman and Professor, Microbiology & Molecular Genetics

William Stekiel, PhD
Professor, Physiology

Three MCW faculty members, all at different stages in their academic careers, will share their experiences with balancing their professional and personal lives. Our panel of speakers will address questions such as 'When did you have children?' and 'If you could do it over again, would you make different choices?'. Please join us for an informal and candid discussion about this important topic, which we all face on a daily basis.

Spotlight on Science

"Advise or Consent - What Do You Want from Your Doctoral Committee?"

Kent W. Wilcox, PhD
Associate Professor, Microbiology & Molecular Genetics

How are members of a dissertation committee selected? Should they be selected by the student or by the mentor? What does one look for when selecting members of the committee? The process of selecting a dissertation committee provides a good opportunity to consider similar processes that researchers will face in their professional career. How do you select someone to write letters of recommendation? How do you select collaborators for a research project? How do you select reviewers of manuscripts or of grant applications? There are no fixed rules for these procedures and there are certainly some diverse opinions.