University of Wisconsin offers workshop for future faculty

About the workshop: The workshop aims to broaden participation in the nation’s engineering faculty ranks, providing scholars who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents the foundation for a faculty career in an engineering discipline.

Designed for postdoctoral scholars or doctoral students who are within their last two years of study, the four-day program is an opportunity to learn more about academic careers and how to succeed in a faculty position. Participants also have the chance to ask current junior and senior faculty about their own path into academia and what influenced their decision.

Who should attend: The workshop is open to graduate students within 1–2 years of seeking a faculty position and postdoctoral scholars.

Those from groups underrepresented in their discipline are encouraged to attend.

Cost: All expenses, including lodging, travel, and meals, are included for participants.

Why participate: In addition to the opportunity to network with like-minded scholars from institutions around the country, participants will gain a better understanding of the following:

• The reality of an academic career as a professor, through presentations, panels, and discussions with faculty members, department chairs, and deans.
• How to apply for a faculty position and negotiate an offer.
• The first-year faculty experience and the promotion and tenure process.
• How to build a successful research program and mentor students.
• How to juggle teaching, research, and service responsibilities and maintain work-life balance.
• How to apply for grants and establish collaborations at a top research university.

During a visit to the UW-Madison College of Engineering, participants will have the opportunity to meet with faculty and department chairs in disciplines of interest and tour the university’s laboratories and research facilities.