Host a Postdoc
Empower the next generation of researchers by hosting a Postdoc
The University of Cambridge Careers Service has secured funding to pilot a work shadowing scheme for postdoctoral researchers exploring careers beyond academia.
We are seeking host organisations and professionals to host a postdoc for a flexible shadowing opportunity of ½ day to 3 days between October 2025 and January 2026.
What is work shadowing?
Work shadowing offers Postdocs the chance to:
- Observe non-academic roles in real-world settings.
- Reflect on how their skills transfer beyond academia
- Gain insights into different sectors and career paths
There is no recruitment expectation – this programme is about exposure, not employment.
Who are Cambridge Postdocs?
Cambridge has over 4,000 postdoctoral researchers working across disciplines, from life sciences to engineering to the humanities.
They are:
- Experts in complex problem-solving, analysis, and innovation
- Skilled in project management, communication and collaboration.
- Authors, speakers and global contributors in their fields
Why Host a Postdoc?
If you're an employer or hiring manager:
- Connect with highly skilled, curious talent
- Raise your organisation’s profile within the world-class research community at Cambridge
- Support informed career transitions and future collaboration
If you’re an alumnus/alumna:
- Reconnect with Cambridge and give back meaningfully
- Share your journey and make a tangible impact on someone’s career
What’s involved?
- Flexible commitment: host a Postdoc for ½ day up to 3 days, at a time that suits you.
- Postdocs will observe your role and your organisation’s working environment, ask questions and reflect.
- All arrangements are coordinated by the Careers Service. We’ll support you and the Postdoc throughout the process.
Interested in Hosting?
We would be delighted to discuss how you or your organisation can participate. For more information or to arrange a call, contact Isha Verma, Postdoc Work Shadowing Project Coordinator.