UAlbany Postdoc Network | University at Albany

About the UAlbany Postdoc Network (UPN)

The UAlbany Postdoc Network (UPN) supports the professional and personal growth of postdoctoral scholars at the University at Albany. Our mission is to enhance postdoctoral training by providing resources for research success, career development and community building across the Capital Region.

UPN, in collaboration with Albany Medical College’s Postdoctoral Development Program, offers programs and events that prepare postdocs for diverse career paths, whether in academia, industry, clinical research or other sectors, while fostering collaboration among institutions.

Four graduate students smile and laugh as they talk inside UAlbany's ETEC building.

How UPN Supports Postdoctoral Scholars

Professional Development & Training

UPN provides structured opportunities to strengthen the essential skills that define a successful scientific career.

Our development series includes sessions on:

Grant and fellowship writing
Oral and written scientific communication
Publishing and research presentation strategies
Academic job applications and interviews
Leadership, mentorship and networking

Workshops are typically held monthly and feature interactive discussions, expert panels and resources tailored to different stages of postdoctoral training.

Career Advancement & Mentorship

Postdocs at UAlbany and Albany Medical College have access to mentorship programs and professional guidance aimed at helping them navigate career transitions.

UPN encourages postdocs to:

Build strong professional networks and collaborations
Develop effective grant and research portfolios
Prepare competitive academic and industry job applications
Explore transferable skills relevant to multiple career tracks

Our approach emphasizes both scientific excellence and career readiness.

Community & Collaboration

UPN is more than a professional resource — it’s a community. Through regular meetings, networking events and cross-institutional collaborations, we connect postdocs across the Capital Region.

Members can engage with peers from the Capital District Postdoc Association (CDPA) and other local research institutions, fostering leadership, collegiality and interdisciplinary exchange.

Inclusive Support for All Postdocs

Whether you are a U.S. citizen or an international scholar, a clinical researcher or a fundamental scientist, UPN is here to support every stage of your postdoctoral experience. Our community values inclusion, respect and collaboration.

We aim to ensure that all postdocs feel connected to the resources and networks they need to thrive both professionally and personally.

International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) helps international trainees working at UAlbany with visa matters, employment authorization, and pre- and post-arrival orientation.

Join the Network

The UAlbany Postdoc Network welcomes all postdoctoral fellows, research associates and clinical fellows at the University at Albany and Albany Medical College.

To get involved or to join our mailing list, please contact Associate Professor Mehmet Yigit at [email protected] and Associate Director of Graduate Student Support & Diversity Lisanny Manzueta Custodio at [email protected].