From September 16-20, postdoctoral scholars from across campus came together to celebrate Waterloo’s annual National Postdoc Appreciation Week (NPAW). Originally started by the National Postdoctoral Association, NPAW takes place each year in September to recognize the significant contributions that postdoctoral scholars make to research and discovery.
This year Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs was pleased to host six events over five days:
September 16
NPAW started off strong with our annual Networking Kick-Off event in Needles Hall. At this event, postdocs met others from across campus, enjoyed some tasty breakfast treats, and heard welcoming remarks from Justin Wan, Interim Co-Associate Vice-President, Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs.
September 17
Starting this double event day, our postdocs first got some fresh air as they explored the trails and wildlife along Columbia Lake on our Guided Nature Walk. Later in the evening, fun conversations were had at our Speed Friending event. Through conversations on superpowers, zombies, and traveling to mars, our attendees got to learn a bit more about each other.
September 18
Our mid-week event included lunch and a workshop on using Generative Artificial Intelligence in the literature review process.
September 19
Near the end of the week, postdocs were able to relax and stretch it out at our exclusive yoga event!
September 20
Finally, we wrapped the week up with pizza and drinks at Graduate House.
If you attended our events, we hope you had an excellent time! Keep an eye out in August for details to attend our next National Postdoc Appreciation Week in September 2025.
