Fall 2026 Postdoc Professional Development Mini-Conference
Join us for this year's Postdoc Professional Development Mini-Conference, designed to equip postdocs with practical skills for career success in academia and beyond. Sessions will focus on three key areas: project management, developing T-shaped skills that broaden professional impact, and crafting competitive grant applications. Participants will learn from content experts representing both KU and industry, gaining valuable perspectives and strategies that can be applied immediately to their research and professional development. Don't miss this opportunity to build skills, expand your network, and prepare for the next stage of your career.
Date & time: Friday, November 13, 2026 | 9:00am-3:30pm
Location: Burge Union, Forum A
Registration Deadline: November 7th, 5:00pm
Please register to secure your spot and to ensure we can accommodate all participants.
KUPA Professional Development Symposium Agenda
| Time | Speakers | Topics |
|---|---|---|
| 08:45 – 09:15 | Check in | Networking |
| 09:00 – 09:30 | Ric Steele Vice Provost for Graduate Affairs and Academic Effectiveness | Opening Remarks |
| 09:30 – 10:20 | Networking Time | |
| 10:30 – 11:25 | Dr. Gary Broils Director of Project Management Program, School of Professional Studies, KU Edwards | Communicating Research with Clarity and Confidence |
| 11:30 – 12:25 | Dr. Katie Shultz Vice President, Engineering & Development Services, Black & Veatch | Developing T-Shaped Skills |
| 12:30 – 1:15 | Lunch break | Networking |
| 1:15 - 2:20 | Dr. Ana Chicas-Mosier Director of Researcher & Trainee Development, KU Office of Research | Proposal Development - The Nuts and Bolts |
| 2:30 – 3:30 | Panel Discussion: Remy Luquesne Associate Dean for Faculty and Staff Affairs, Black & Veatch Professor in Civil Engineering | Writing Effective Proposals: Advice from Reviewers |