The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) has been recognized by the National Postdoctoral Association for a postdoctoral training program that gives early-career scientists protected time to develop leadership, communication, and other professional skills alongside their research, helping them build a foundation for long-term career success.
The award recognizes institutions that have implemented — and exceeded — the National Postdoctoral Association's recommended policies and practices designed to help postdoctoral scholars succeed during training and transition into a wide range of scientific careers.
UTMB is being recognized for its Postdoctoral Certificate Program, a professional development initiative that integrates structured training into the postdoctoral experience. The program is housed in the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS) and is open to all UTMB postdoctoral scholars no matter where they conduct their research.
"Receiving this recognition is an honor because it reflects the institution’s commitment to helping postdoctoral scholars succeed," said Sara Dann, PhD, director of the Postdoctoral Certificate Program. "Our leadership recognizes the value that postdoctoral scholars bring and has created a structure that allows them to flourish by building the communication, presentation, and leadership skills they need to advance science and their careers."
The National Institutes of Health requires institutions to ensure that career and professional development account for a minimum average of 10% of a postdoctoral scholar's effort and to establish policies and resources that provide equitable access to this training. The Postdoctoral Certificate Program at UTMB was designed to meet this requirement by offering structured training in scientific writing, oral presentations, communication, teamwork, and other professional competencies.
“I’m truly delighted that UTMB is receiving this award,” said Adriana Gutierrez Grebenkova, MD-PhD, past president of the UTMB Postdoctoral Association. “As a postdoctoral fellow myself, I have witnessed firsthand how leaders such as Dr. Dann and GSBS Dean Dr. Melinda Sheffield-Moore listen to our postdoc community and translate our input into meaningful policy support. This award reflects the institution’s strong commitment to its postdoctoral scholars and helps foster an environment where we feel supported, heard, and able to do our best work.”
"Many postdoctoral scholars arrive planning to become principal investigators leading their own laboratories," Dann said. "While some pursue academic careers, the reality is that scientists contribute in many different ways. We want every postdoctoral scholar to have the skills and confidence to succeed wherever their career takes them."
Postdoctoral scholars complete the one-year certificate while continuing their research. After earning the certificate, they may continue participating through advanced tracks focused on areas such as scientific management, teaching, and mentoring.
UTMB is one of only two institutions in The University of Texas System that require postdoctoral scholars to enroll in a structured professional development program. The university currently has approximately 89 postdoctoral scholars, about half of whom are enrolled in the certificate program, which was established in 2009.
The university's efforts extend beyond classroom instruction. The institution strongly emphasizes community building through an active Postdoctoral Association, monthly networking and wellness events, and activities that foster a sense of belonging.
The Department of Human Resources and Office of Faculty Affairs at UTMB worked together to develop an annual evaluation process tailored specifically to postdoctoral training. The assessment enables both faculty mentors and postdoctoral scholars to measure progress toward nationally recognized professional competencies.
The National Postdoctoral Association developed its recommended policies and practices through collaboration among universities, administrators, and postdoctoral scholars nationwide. The organization's Institutional Policy Award recognizes institutions that have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to implementing those standards.