Levels of Postdoc Contribution
The largest hesitation with joining a Postdoctoral Association (or PDA) is time. How much time do I have to give? Postdocs are busy enough as it is. Therefore, the PDA structures membership in two tiers: Council Members or Contributors. Many postdocs find their desired level of contribution within our team, whether its leading the council, serving as a council member, leading the development of key events, helping to manage communications/social media, promoting, or providing your feedback and/or ideas! And there is room for all levels of contributors.
A great way to get started is to email the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs (postdocs@usc.edu) to join a meeting to see how it all works.
Council Members
The USC PDA is led by a leadership council composed of postdoctoral scholars who volunteer their time toward improving the postdoctoral experience at USC. Council members meet regularly with the Director of the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs to develop programs and events on campus for the postdoctoral community. Many campus events are designed by members of the council, with the support and help of the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs. Council members are responsible for setting the direction for yearly PDA programming, with input from the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs and the postdoctoral community.
Contributors
The PDA solicits input from all postdocs within the community, who are welcome at all PDA meetings, town halls, etc. Postdoc contributors are those who wish to participate in specific tasks, events or program elements. Contributors are asked to join meetings that would be relevant to their participation.
Join the PDA
The PDA is always looking for new postdoc contributors. Any member of the postdoctoral community from USC or CHLA is welcome to join.
Our community is what we make of it.
Get in touch: postdocs@usc.edu