Postdocs contribute an incredible range of expertise across teaching, mentoring, leadership, project management, community building and much more. But these contributions often go unseen, unrecognised, or misunderstood.  

It’s time to change that. 
And we need you to help us do it.   

What’s Happening?

The University of Leeds is leading the ‘Unpacking the Postdoc’ event, a full-day, hands-on workshop designed specifically for postdoctoral researchers across the White Rose University Consortium.

Date: Monday 13 July 

Time: 10:00am – 4:00pm (lunch included) 

Where: Cloth Hall Court, Leeds (or join online) 

Why Attend?  

This workshop will give you the chance to:  

• Shape how the sector understands postdocs – Work with others in your discipline to map out the real responsibilities of postdoctoral roles. Help create an evidence-based, sector-facing output with all participants named as co‑authors.  

• Make your experience visible – Your voice will feed directly into discussions that influence recognition, policy, and support structures for postdocs.  

• Get personalised professional development – To recognise your time and input we are including a session on the StrengthsFinder assessment to explore how your strengths can support leadership, collaboration, and career decision‑making whether you stay in academia or take your skills elsewhere.  

• Connect across the White Rose Partnership – Meet postdocs from York and Sheffield as well as Leeds, share experiences, and build new collaborations.  

Please note: Although the event is free for you, each place costs the University around £200. As places are limited, please only register if you can commit to the full day and block it out in your calendar – don’t accidentally take a spot from someone else who would really benefit.   

Ready to help Unpack the Postdoc?

For more information and to complete the expression of interest form, please visit the Unpacking the Postdoc webpage. Places will be confirmed by the end of May. 

• Travel expenses can only be claimed for a return trip from your home institution’s location (York or Sheffield) to Leeds.
• University of York delegates travelling by train must book their train by contacting info@whiterose.ac.uk
• You must register for the event using the form provided and sign in on the day.
• You can claim a maximum of £30, however, we expect claims to be below this amount.
• Only travel costs are covered.
• Standard class train travel only.
• A valid receipt must always be provided for each expense item on the claim form.
• Claims must be submitted within 3 months of the expenses being incurred.
• All expense claims must be made on the University of York’s standard claim forms.
• You will receive a copy of the expense forms via email after the event.