Once again this September, Aarhus University celebrates Postdoc Appreciation Week (PAW). It is a week dedicated to recognising the valuable contributions of postdoctoral researchers and strengthening connections across the AU community. Organised by the Junior Researcher Association in collaboration with other faculties, the programme will feature an exciting mix of courses, workshops, and social events designed to inspire, inform, and bring people together.
PAW is open to all postdoctoral researchers at AU, as well as colleagues and collaborators who want to join in the celebration. Whether you are looking to gain new skills, meet peers from across disciplines, or simply enjoy good conversation over food and drinks, there is something for everyone.
The TECH/NAT Postdoc Day is organised by Technical Sciences and AU Career PhD & JR. It is a part of Postdoc Appreciation Week (PAW). The day consists of three different events, each of which requires registration. You can register for each session below.
Location: AIAS auditorium, building 1632, room 201, Høegh-Guldbergs Gade 6B, 8000 Aarhus
Programme for the day:
Session 1: 09.00-13.00: Career coaching for postdocs: What I need to do vs. What I want to do
09.00- 09.10: Welcome, why career coaching is important and expectations for the workshop, Michelle Williams, Vice-Dean for Talent Development, TECH, AU
09.10 – 09.30: Know your own strengths and preferences, Vibeke Broe, AU Career PhD & JR
09.30 – 10.00: Transition from PhD to postdoc and beyond, Vibeke Broe
10.00- 10.20: Experience of an early career strategy, Monika Colombo, Tenure Track Assistant professor, Dept. of Mechanical and Production Engineering, TECH
10.20 – 10.35: Break
10.35 – 11.05: Industry as a goal? Niall Young, IFF (https://www.iff.com/)
11.05 – 11.30: Academia as a goal? Vibeke Broe
11.30 – 12.00: Entrepreneurship as a goal? Peter Freisner Johansen, KITCHEN
12.00 -12.15: Shared Q/A
12.15 – 12.25: Wrap up, and key take home messages, Vibeke Broe
12.25-13.00: Lunch
Lunch is included from 12.20-13.00
Session 2: 13.00-14.00: Well-being, meaning and motivation - by Sanne Schou, Aut. Psychologist
The session provides information on psychological factors and conditions that promote well-being and gives input to what you can do to experience meaning, stay motivated and reduce stress in order to maintain a good work-life balance.
14.00-14.15: Coffee break
Session 3: 14:15-15:15: Embracing Diversity in Research Proposals, Isabella Marie Leong, Dept.of Agroecology, Tech
15:15-15.30: Closing remarks
Please note that registration deadline is 20 September, 2026, at 23.59.
This joint event sponsored by the Faculties of Health and Natural Sciences aims to support junior researchers in exploring diverse career opportunities and funding pathways beyond traditional academic trajectories while fostering connections across disciplines. The event is designed for postdoctoral researchers, assistant professors, and other early-career researchers interested in exploring diverse career trajectories and building connections with organizations outside the university sector.
Location: M2, building 1427-246, Fredrik Nielsens Vej 2-4, 8000 Aarhus C
Programme for the day:
12:30 – 13:15: Lunch for Panelists and Hosts
13:30 – 13:45: Welcome and Introduction
Overview of the event objectives and introduction of panelists.
13:45 – 14:30: Panel 1: From Academia to Industry – Navigating Career Transitions
A discussion with AU postdoc alumni, who have successfully transitioned into industry roles. Panelists will share their experiences, discuss transferable skills, and provide advice for careers beyond the university sector.
14:30 – 14:45: Coffee Break
14:45 – 15:30: Panel 2: Funding Pathways for Research Innovation and Career Development
A discussion focused on funding opportunities that support innovation, industry collaboration, entrepreneurship, and alternative research career pathways. Panelists will provide practical guidance on available funding schemes and support mechanisms.
15:30 – 16:00: Networking Reception
Informal networking with panelists and participants over drinks and light refreshments.
Please note that registration deadline is 21 September, 2026, at 09.00.
