Cambridge ranked best place to work for life science postdocs

Cambridge was ranked number one among the top international academic and non-commercial organisations for employment.

The survey was carried out by The Scientist magazine, which publishes lists of the best US and international institutions for life-sciences post-doctoral researchers annually.

The University received praise in particular for implementing a career support and services programme, focusing on professional training and listening to the lobbying of its post-doctoral society.

Institutions from around the world were ranked on their performance in eleven areas. These included aspects focusing on professional growth, including training, mentoring, and career development opportunities.

Dr Anne Forde, Careers Adviser for Life Sciences Post-Doctoral Researchers said: “A postdoc position at the University of Cambridge offers our researchers a chance to interact with some of the best life scientists in the world. However, a postdoc contract is not usually a means to an end and postdocs still have a lot of ground to make in securing their long term career goals.

“I think that it is only correct that we can offer our postdocs comprehensive support in their career management and professional training. It’s a privilege, along with other colleagues in Staff Development, to be involved in this pursuit.”

Other areas examined included the benefits and funding on offer, as well as the quality of the facilities and of personal life at the institution.

Dr David Sargan, Director of Graduate Education at the Graduate School of Life Sciences said: “Postdoctoral scientists across the world are faced with a difficult career structure, in which short term contracts, long hours and insecurity about re-employment and promotion prospects are the norm.

“The University of Cambridge has for long been concerned about the consequences of this situation. It is very gratifying that our postdocs have responded so positively to the efforts that we are making.

“The contributions of staff in the University's Careers Service and in the Graduate School of Life Sciences have been invaluable. But perhaps the most important factor has been the creativity, imagination, drive and enthusiasm of Dr Anne Forde who has spearheaded the delivery of these programmes for postdocs.”

The full survey results, including rankings of the top 45 global institutions and methodology can be found in this month’s issue of The Scientist and on their website.