National Postdoc Appreciation Week 2025 Recap

A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who joined us for National Postdoc Appreciation Week (September 15–19, 2025). It was an inspiring week of community, connection, and recognition of the incredible contributions postdocs make every day at ASU and across Arizona.

The Tempe campus recently welcomed over 60 postdoctoral scholars from Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, and the University of Arizona for the 2025 Arizona Postdoctoral Research Conference, held at Old Main under the theme “Bridging Barriers: Cultivating Resilience through Innovative Interdisciplinary Research.”

The conference began over a luncheon in Old Main’s Carson Ballroom, where attendees connected before diving into research presentations and poster sessions. Scholars shared their work across four interdisciplinary themes: Biomedical Innovation, Science and Society, Health and Human Behavior, and Sustainability and Conservation. These sessions provided a vibrant platform for participants to exchange perspectives, highlight new discoveries, and foster meaningful dialogue across disciplines.

The afternoon program opened with remarks from Vice Provost and Dean Elizabeth Wentz, who underscored the importance of supporting early-career researchers. Executive Vice President and University Provost Nancy Gonzales followed with a welcome address, emphasizing the essential contributions of postdoctoral scholars to Arizona’s innovation ecosystem and research excellence.

The keynote address was delivered by Senior Vice Provost and Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Kenro Kusumi, who reflected on the opportunities and challenges inherent in the postdoctoral experience. His talk resonated with attendees, as he shared guidance on positioning interdisciplinary research for the job market, strategies for managing professional anxiety, and the importance of maintaining passion for discovery. The interactive session allowed postdocs to pose questions directly, sparking thoughtful dialogue about career development and the future of research.

Beyond formal presentations, the conference created ample space for community building. During a lively networking hour, postdoctoral scholars forged new connections and strengthened professional ties, underscoring the collaborative spirit of the event. The conference offered a window into the breadth of inquiry and creativity that postdoctoral researchers bring to Arizona’s universities, as well as a preview of the work being shaped by the next generation of scholars.

Looking ahead, the University of Arizona will host the 2026 Arizona Postdoctoral Research Conference during National Postdoc Appreciation Week (September 14–18, 2026). The event will continue to serve as a catalyst for interdisciplinary collaboration and a celebration of the resilience, innovation, and impact of postdoctoral researchers across the state.

Arizona Postdoctoral Research Conference 2025