Postdoc Training at OMRF

Training the next generation of researchers is a missional value at OMRF. As such, we have created training programs and opportunities that complement the training postdocs receive in their individual labs to not only enhance career development but also to bolster a sense of community and belonging.

Postdoc Training Program

Led by the OMRF Postdoc Training Committee (PTC), consisting of PIs representing the institution’s different research specialties, this program is specifically focused on career development. The OMRF PTC solicits input from Postdocs every year to build relevant content for monthly meetings at which postdocs receive topical career guidance through panel discussions and workshops or have opportunities to present their research to a broad audience. Additionally, the PTC encourages Postdocs to assemble individual advisory committees to receive personalized career guidance from a small group of PIs. Postdocs who participate in these career development activities and form an Advisory Committee are eligible to compete for OMRF Postdoc Travel Awards to support their attendance at meetings or workshops.

Postdoc Association

The OMRF Postdoc Association (PDA) is run by Postdocs within OMRF who are responsible for planning community building events for OMRF Postdocs. This includes planning events throughout Postdoc Appreciation Week, philanthropic or volunteer events as well as fun activities and outings for Postdocs and their families in the OKC area. The elected offices of the OMRF PDA provide valuable leadership opportunities for our Postdocs as well as a way to engage with the overall OMRF Postdoc Community. Additionally, OMRF is an organizational member of the National Postdoctoral Association, which provides OMRF postdocs with free affiliate memberships to this organization that offers additional career development and networking opportunities. Two OMRF PDA officers may also attend the annual meeting of the National Postdoctoral Association.

Institutional Awards & Grants

OMRF Postdocs have several opportunities to compete for awards and grants sponsored by OMRF, including:

• Best Postdoc Paper of the Year Award, presented at the yearly OMRF Scientific retreat
• Bi-annual Career Development Grants which provide $5,000 for long-term training in another lab or an extended workshop
• Bi-annual Postdoc Travel Awards of up to $1,500 to support meeting and conference attendance

Pay and Benefits

OMRF follows NIH stipend guidelines (up to the first four years) and provides a comprehensive benefit package for full-time Postdoctoral Research Scholars, including paid time off, a free OMRF gym membership, an 8% retirement match and many more.

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