Postdoctoral Fellows
RESEARCH EVENTS
Scientific engagement
The Purdue Institute for Cancer Research (PICR) fosters a collaborative environment where postdoctoral fellows engage with peers and faculty to exchange ideas and stay at the forefront of cancer science. Events such as Cancer Research Day, specialized seminars, and the journal club offer opportunities to share findings, gain insights from leading experts, and strengthen interdisciplinary collaborations. These interactions help postdocs expand their professional networks and build relationships that support both scientific advancement and career growth.
FLAGSHIP EVENT
Cancer Research Day
Cancer Research Day is PICR’s signature annual event showcasing innovative cancer research across Purdue. Trainees present posters, learn from expert speakers, and engage with faculty and peers to exchange ideas and gain feedback on their work.
EXPERT INSIGHTS
Seminar Series
The PICR Seminar Series features leading scientists sharing advances in cancer research and related fields. These talks expose trainees to emerging discoveries and encourage interaction with visiting experts and Purdue faculty.
DISCUSSIONS
PICR Journal Club
The PICR Cancer Journal Club is led by undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral trainees to deepen understanding of oncology research, strengthen analytical skills, and build peer connections. Sessions review recently published articles or trainee research presentations, with faculty mentors providing feedback, career guidance, and instruction in data analysis tools.
membership and community
Bioinformatics workshop
The PICR Bioinformatics Workshop provides students and faculty with no-cost, essential bioinformatics training. The annual event offers hands-on experience with computational techniques critical for high-quality data analysis, including Linux/Unix commands, R programming, and high-performance computing.
Past workshops have focused on RNA-seq analysis, covering data alignment, differential expression, pathway analysis, and cloud computing for large-scale processing. Participants engage in lectures, hands-on exercises, and expert-led discussions to build practical skills in sequencing data analysis. Invited external speakers also share insights on advanced bioinformatics topics and emerging research trends.
funding for postdocs
The Purdue Institute for Cancer Research supports postdoctoral fellows in advancing their careers through opportunities like the Postdoc Travel Award. This competitive grant provides up to $2,000 for postdocs presenting cancer-related research at major professional conferences, helping trainees share their work, build professional networks and gain visibility in the scientific community. Applicants must be trainee members working under a PICR faculty member. At least two awards are available each year, with applications due March 1, 2025.
The Outstanding Postdoctoral Fellow Award recognizes an exceptional postdoctoral trainee each year for their commitment, creativity, and excellence in cancer research. This award honors a researcher whose work demonstrates innovation, scientific rigor, and the potential to make a lasting impact on the field. Open to postdoctoral fellows who have been at Purdue for at least one year under the mentorship of a PICR faculty member, the award celebrates both research achievements and the ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.
UNIVERSITY RESOURCES: FIND SUPPORT
Career planning and development resources
The Office of the Vice Provost for Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Scholars partners with many organizations to connect current graduate students with career development services and resources, including:
Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Professional Development
The Academic Career Track series offers guidance on interviews, teaching skills, crafting strong teaching statements and preparing for faculty positions.
For those exploring opportunities beyond academia, the Industry Career Track workshops provide insights into career paths such as entrepreneurship and other industry-focused roles.
Strong communication is essential for advancing your career in research. Workshops offered through the Office of the Vice Provost for Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Scholars and the Purdue Center for Career Opportunities help postdocs refine key skills, from delivering clear, compelling presentations to building professional networks, interviewing effectively and navigating successful negotiations.
Delivering presentations
The Lamb School’s Purdue Presentation Center offers personalized support to help strengthen presentation skills from start to finish. Whether you need guidance on organizing content, creating effective visuals, refining presentation delivery or preparing for a virtual format, expert coaches can help.
For writing-related questions tied to your presentation, visit the On-Campus Writing Lab (OWL).
Explore career opportunities in academia, industry and government that match your expertise in cancer research and beyond through these trusted resources:
Contact Us
Get in touch
Phone: 765-494-9129
Fax: 765-494-9193
Email: cancerresearch@purdue.edu
Meet our team
Find us
201 S. University St.
Hansen Life Sciences Bldg, Rm. 141
West Lafayette, IN 47907