The purpose of the UAMS Postdoctoral Society is to create, nourish, and sustain a vibrant academic community for postdoctoral fellows at UAMS.
Find out more about the UAMS Postdoctoral Society and connect with other UAMS postdoctoral fellows.
The UAMS Postdoctoral Society is a grassroots, volunteer-led organization dedicated to improving the postdoctoral experience and building a strong academic community across campus. All postdocs are automatically eligible to participate, and all disciplines are welcome.
Mission
The PDS works to:
- Build a vibrant, interdisciplinary postdoctoral community at UAMS
- Foster professional and social interaction among postdocs
- Identify resources and partnerships that enhance the postdoc experience
- Provide a forum to share information and raise issues that impact postdoctoral fellows
- Promote dialogue between postdocs, faculty, administration, and industry partners
Why Join the PDS?
- Connect with peers across labs and colleges
- Help curate professional development sessions, seminars, and invited talks
- Participate in social events and networking activities
- Contribute to a supportive and inclusive postdoc culture
- Gain leadership experience through volunteer service or elected positions
Officers & Leadership Structure
The PDS is led by volunteer postdoctoral fellows who serve in the following roles:
- Co-Presidents (2) – Facilitate PDS meetings, coordinate society initiatives, maintain communication with the postdoc community, and serve as primary liaisons to OPA regarding community needs and feedback.
- Secretary – Records meeting minutes, distributes agendas and notes, and ensures that information is shared broadly with postdocs.
- Treasurer – Oversees PDS funds, prepares spending plans, and supports resource allocation for community and social activities.
- Communications Chair(s) – Manages the PDS newsletter, announcements, and website updates to keep postdocs informed of society activities and opportunities.
- Social Events Chair(s) – Plans and coordinates social and community-building events that strengthen connection among postdocs across UAMS.
Leadership terms begin at 12 months, with opportunities for up to two years in elected roles. All leadership positions welcome nominations and volunteer participation.
Together, PDS officers help cultivate a vibrant, inclusive, and informed postdoctoral community while partnering constructively with the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.
Eligibility
Membership is open to all individuals at UAMS, Arkansas Children’s, and affiliated institutions with the title:
- Postdoctoral Fellow
- Postdoctoral Researcher
- NRSA Postdoctoral Fellow
Monthly Meetings
First Friday of each month at 12:00 PM at the Strauss McCaskill Learning Center, Cancer Institute, 10th Floor.
Events & Initiatives
The Postdoctoral Society and the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs coordinate a variety of programs throughout the year, including:
- Professional development seminars
- Skill-building workshops
- Social and networking events
- Grant writing resources
- Community outreach
- Wellness programming