The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs and Office of Research Technology are seeking your input for a new professional development initiative that connects UNC postdoctoral scholars with Core Facilities through short-term internships. These internships are designed to give postdocs hands-on experience with advanced technologies, lab operations, and data analysis, while providing Core Facilities with support on technical projects, workflow improvements, or training materials. The program aligns with national guidance encouraging postdocs to dedicate 10–20% of their time to skill development and career exploration—and it offers Core Directors a chance to engage with motivated research talent, raise visibility, and contribute to campus-wide collaboration.

We invite you to join a virtual lunchtime discussion to talk through what this program could look like in practice. Your insight is essential as we consider the structure, logistics, and types of projects that would make participation meaningful and feasible for Core Facilities. We’ll discuss intern selection, time commitment, mentoring expectations, and the support that can be provided throughout the process. This is an opportunity to shape a low-barrier, high-impact program that benefits both postdocs and the research infrastructure they depend on. We look forward to hearing your ideas.