Join us for a four-part series designed exclusively for postdoctoral scholars to actively engage with mentoring concepts and strategies. During February and March, participants will explore key topics such as effective communication, expectation setting, network building, and career development through peer discussion. Postdocs who complete all four sessions will receive a certificate of participation. This series offers a collaborative environment for postdocs to share experiences, strengthen their mentoring relationships, and build the skills needed to engage confidently with mentors while charting a path toward independence.

Module 1| Mentoring Up & Aligning Expectations

Date: Thursday 5th February, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Location: The Pleasants Family Assembly Room, Wilson Library

Registration: https://apps2.research.unc.edu/events/index.cfm?event=events.go&key=CC7E

This workshop gives participants practical strategies to work more effectively with their mentors by reframing the mentoring relationship, setting expectations that benefit both mentor and mentee, and communicating and aligning those expectations with clarity and confidence.

Module 2 | Communicating with Confidence and Purpose

Date: Thursday, 19th February, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Location: The Pleasants Family Assembly Room, Wilson Library

Registration: https://apps2.research.unc.edu/events/index.cfm?event=events.go&key=CC80

This workshop provides participants with practical communication tools they can apply in a range of mentoring situations. Attendees will learn how to navigate communication across varied backgrounds and positions of power, how to understand and adapt to different communication styles, and how to accept and use constructive feedback to strengthen professional relationships.

Module 3 |Maximize your Mentor Relationships: Building Your Support Network

Date: Thursday 5th March, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Location: The Pleasants Family Assembly Room, Wilson Library

Registration: https://apps2.research.unc.edu/events/index.cfm?event=events.go&key=CC81

This workshop explores how to identify and cultivate a diverse mentoring network that supports both research and career development. Participants will map their current mentor(s), identify gaps, and develop strategies for expanding their network.

Module 4 |Building Independence: Mentoring Approaches for Career Development

Date: Thursday 19th March, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Location: The Pleasants Family Assembly Room, Wilson Library

Registration: https://apps2.research.unc.edu/events/index.cfm?event=events.go&key=CC82

This session emphasizes how postdocs can use mentoring relationships to advance independence and professional growth. Participants will develop strategies for setting career goals, seeking targeted guidance, and taking ownership of their path forward.