Core Competencies in Postdoctoral Neuroscience Training

SfN’s Neuroscience Training Committee has developed Core Competencies in Postdoctoral Neuroscience Training for:

• Faculty and programs to assist in developing and evaluating the training they provide to postdoctoral fellows
• Postdocs to assess the skills they have acquired throughout their postdoctoral training, track their progress, or provide awareness of the requirements for potential future postdoctoral training opportunities

I. CONCEPTUAL KNOWLEDGE

• Analytical approach to defining scientific questions
• Design of scientifically testable hypotheses
• Broad based and cross-disciplinary knowledge
• Conceptual understanding of development, structure, and function of the nervous system, and the biology and function of cells of the nervous system

II. RESEARCH SKILL DEVELOPMENT

• Detailed knowledge of specific research area
• Design of rigorous and scientifically testable hypotheses
• Proficiency in analytical approaches to defining scientific questions
• Proficiency in experimental design and scientific tools and techniques, including computer-based data handling
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation
• Proficiency in scientifically rigorous experimental design and execution, as well as data analysis and interpretation with expectation of independence
• Independence in grant application and scientific publishing processes

III. RIGOROUS AND RESPONSIBLE CONDUCT OF RESEARCH

• Proficiency in scientifically rigorous experimental design and execution, as well as data analysis and interpretation
• Knowledge and implementation of policies regarding human subjects, vertebrate animal subjects in research, government guidelines, and safe laboratory practices
• Proficiency in data acquisition and laboratory tools; data management, sharing, and ownership
• Proficiency and professional-level comprehension of:
  • Conflicts of interest — personal, professional, and financial
  • Mentor-mentee responsibilities and management of this relationship
  • Research collaborations
  • Confidentiality and bias in peer review
  • Responsible authorship and publication processes
• Proficiency in identifying, reporting, and mitigating research misconduct, including data falsification or manipulation

IV. COMMUNICATION SKILLS

• Writing: Includes scientific publications; grants/applications; career-related documents, including curriculum vitae, resumes, cover letters, research or teaching statements; and communications to diverse audiences, including scientific and non-expert audiences
• Speaking: Includes presenting research to scientific and non-expert audiences; conference and seminar presentations, including posters and PowerPoint slide decks; job interviews and job talks
• Active listening
• Effective use of technology for visual presentation of data and preparation of figures

V. CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND PROFESSIONALISM

• Responsible, respectful, and inclusive leadership
• Personnel management skills
• Project management skills
• Mentoring
• Proficiency in understanding and managing cultural differences and implicit biases
• Advocacy
• Education and outreach
• Proactive and personalized implementation of steps required for career transition
• Interpersonal skills, including conflict resolution, negotiation, and giving/receiving feedback