ABQ Times

The University of New Mexico (UNM) is celebrating its 127 postdoctoral researchers during National Postdoc Appreciation Week, held annually in the third week of September. This event, recognized by the U.S. House of Representatives since 2010 and sponsored by the National Postdoc Association (NPA) since 2009, acknowledges the significant contributions of postdocs to research.

“Last year, we invested in our postdocs with the creation of the UNM Office of Postdoctoral Affairs because it's essential that our researchers know and feel supported as they navigate this first path in their professional career," said Vice President for Research Ellen Fisher. "Postdocs bring unique and exceptional perspectives to the research landscape that ultimately build and expand upon the pillars of being a research university, making contributions to our local communities and communities around the world."

Raquela Thomas, coordinator for the Office for Postdoctoral Affairs, emphasized the importance of postdoctoral scholars at UNM. “Postdoctoral scholars play a significant role in the success of UNM as effective researchers, teachers and mentors,” she said. “The passion and work ethic required to be a postdoc result in this group having an impact disproportionate to its relatively small size. These scholars deserve a huge amount of appreciation, so be sure to thank a postdoc.”

In 2023, UNM's Office of the Vice President for Research established the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs (OPA). The OPA offers programs focused on career development, scholarly activities, community-building, and mentoring relationships for postdoctoral scholars across all UNM campuses. It serves as an administrative hub where postdocs can access various resources including training, education, funding, and networking opportunities.

National Postdoc Appreciation Week at UNM will feature several events:

- Monday:

- 10-11 a.m.: Coffee Hour (Main Campus)

- 4:30-6 p.m.: President's Reception

- Tuesday:

- 10-11 a.m.: North Campus Coffee Hour

- 12-1:30 p.m.: Financial Planning: A personal guide

- Wednesday:

- 12-1:30 p.m.: Postdoc Resource Roundup Luncheon (Main Campus). RSVP by Sept. 13

- Thursday:

- 12-1:30 p.m.: Postdoc Resource Roundup Luncheon (HSC/North Campus). RSVP by Sept. 13

- 5-7 p.m.: Sip & Socialize

- Friday:

- 9 a.m.-4 p.m.: NMSU Postdoc Research Symposium

The main campus and HSC resource luncheons are hybrid events open to graduate students as well. For more details on schedules and locations, visit the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs website.