February 17-21, 2025 | Vol. 11, Issue 7
In this issue:
- Healthy Habits, Strong Minds: Nutrition and Fitness for Grad Students
- Investigators for Sustainable Labs training
- Tips & Methods to Using AI to Assist with Your Job Search Process
- The Art of Science Communication: How to Share your Passion and Excitement for your Work
- Pfizer's Postdoctoral Research Opportunity
- Living & Working in Cananda
- URSMD Office for Faculty Development Education Grand Rounds
- International Student Tax Overview
Healthy Habits, Strong Minds: Nutrition and Fitness for Grad Students
��️ Monday, February 17 | ⏱️ 2-3pm | �� K-207 Auditorium (2-6408)
Balancing the demands of graduate training with personal well-being can be a challenge, but it’s also essential for making the most of your graduate school experience. The panel will share practical tips and strategies for improving your nutrition, staying active, and maintaining overall wellness. From quick meal ideas for busy schedules to simple ways to incorporate exercise into your routine, this event is designed to help you thrive in both your academic and personal life. Please fill out our short registration form if you plan on attending.
Please note: This event will be recorded for future use as an episode of The Next Step podcast. Any questions or comments picked up by a microphone during the event may end up in the final product.
Investigators for Sustainable Labs training (February 2025)
��️ Tuesday, February 18 | ⏱️ 3-4pm | �� Louise Slaughter Room (1-9555): Green lab practices to reduce water
Sustainable Labs Initiative is hosting an Investigators for Sustainable Labs training to train the next generation of investigators in green lab practices. This training series is sponsored by URMC MyHub, and utilizes the My Green Labs Ambassador program as the training platform. This training series will also include guest speakers from university departments such as sustainability, facilities, and the biological supply store, that will lead discussions on current practices at UR. This training will include the following meeting times and topics, and food and refreshments will be provided:
• Tuesday, February 25, 3:00 - 4:30 pm, 1-9576 Ryan Case Method Room: Green lab practices to promote green chemistry.
Tips & Methods to Using AI to Assist with Your Job Search Process
��️ Tuesday, February 18 | ⏱️ 12-1:15pm | �� Louise Slaughter Room (1-9555)
This interactive workshop empowers participants to leverage AI tools in every step of the job application process. From analyzing job postings to preparing for interviews, attendees will explore how AI can streamline applications, highlight transferable skills, and boost confidence for both virtual and in-person interviews. Through hands-on activities and demonstrations, participants will leave with actionable strategies and resources to enhance their job search using cutting-edge technology. Registration is required and limited to 25 SMD trainees.
The Art of Science Communication: How to Share your Passion and Excitement for your Work - GWIS Meeting
��️ Thursday, February 20 | ⏱️ 3-4pm | �� Adolph Lower Aud (1-7619)
Pien Huang, Health Reporter, Science Desk, National Public Radio, Washington, D.C. is the invited speaker for this meeting. Pien Huang will also be presenting a general talk on Thursday, February 20th, titled “This NPR Life: What it’s Like to be a Public Health Reporter These Days” at 1 p.m. in the Class of ‘62 Aud (G-9425). Check out both flyers as well as the GWIS Spring 2025 schedule.
Pfizer's Postdoctoral Research Opportunity
��️ Tuesday, February 25 | ⏱️ 2-3pm | �� Learning Lab 2-7520
A postdoctoral fellowship at a pharmaceutical company offers a chance to get your foot into the door of the industry. As part of Pfizer’s Research & Development Postdoctoral Program, scientists engage in ground-breaking research, while making valuable connections with industry professionals. In this PhRMA Foundation webinar, we'll share an overview of Pfizer’s postdoc program and how to apply, and current Pfizer fellows will discuss their experiences and answer questions. Join us to learn whether applying for an industry postdoc might be the right career move for you. FREE coffee and snacks will be provided for all participants
Living & Working in Cananda
��️ Wednesday, February 26 | ⏱️ 1pm | �� Virtual
Join the first of three info sessions about living and working in Canada on Wednesday, February 26, at 1pm. The other two info sessions are on Thursday, March 20, at 4pm and Monday, April 14, at 3pm. During the session permanent resident pathways, express entry, the work permit process, and more will be discussed. Each info session will have the same content, multiple times and days are offered to accommodate various schedules.
URSMD Office for Faculty Development Education Grand Rounds
��️ Wednesday, February 26 | ⏱️ 12-1pm | �� Class of '62 Auditorium & Zoom
Trusting relationships between faculty and learners, described as an "educational alliance", play an important role in constructive feedback. Yet, such relationships are difficult to achieve in current clinical learning environments (CLEs). Much of the current literature focuses on efforts to improve learners' trust in faculty supervisors, with little attention to faculty trust in learners as partners in the educational process. In this presentation, we will share findings from our study of faculty perceptions of and experiences with constructive feedback to learners in clinical learning environments. Based on these findings, we will discuss current initiatives to improve feedback at our institution.
GCC Virtual Career Expo
��️ Wednesday, March 5 | ⏱️ 12-4pm | �� Virtual
Are you looking for an internship, postdoc, fellowship, or full-time role? The free Virtual Career Expo brings together employers from the fields of STEM, Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences seeking advanced degree talent (Masters, PhDs, Postdocs, and Alumni).
Registered attendees will participate in the event as avatars. The attendee avatars will be able to move about the event through different rooms (lobby, exhibitor booths, lounge, etc.). Each employer will have a virtual booth and attendee avatars will "visit" the booth to learn about the employer and career opportunities. If interested in an attendee, employers will invite them to private sessions or send private messages.
myHub's Workplace Wellness Series for Postdocs
��️ Wednesday, April 9 | ⏱️ 12-1:30pm | �� Conference Room (2-7539)
New in 2025! myHub's Workplace Wellness Series for Postdocs brings postdocs together for lunch, community-building, and development of personal well-being through interactive in-person workshops every other month. The February and April Workplace Wellness workshops will explore Science & Mindfulness with Laura Gavigan, founder of Mindful Matters. Laura provides coaching and counseling for practical insight into stress and burnout, and the mindfulness tools you need for immediate and transformative change.
Attend both sessions to fully expand your mindfulness practices, Wednesday, February 12, 2025, and Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Save the Date - 36th Annual Genetics Day
��️ Monday, April 28 | ⏱️ 9am-4:30pm | �� Class of '62 Auditorium & Sarah Flaum Atrium
The keynote speaker will be Marisa Bartolomei, Ph.D., Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. In addition to the keynote lecture, this event will include talks by faculty and trainees as well as a poster session. Applications to present trainee talks or posters will open March 2025, so please keep your eyes out for future announcements. There will be cash prizes for trainee talks and poster awards.
| Job/Internship Opportunities |
Are you planning or looking for a summer internship or shadowing experience?
Connect with Eric Vaughn, Director of Career Services - myHub, to explore opportunities and access valuable resources to make the most of your experience. Schedule your appointment today through Handshake!
Sarepta - Internships
Now accepting Summer 2025 Internship Program applications. Sarepta is a commercial-stage biotechnology company with leadership positions in Duchenne muscular dystrophy and limb-girdle muscular dystrophies. The company, which has four marketed products and a deep pipeline of programs in various stages of development, offers paid internships for college and graduate students majoring in STEM as well as non-science disciplines. Interns are introduced to Sarepta’s business, research and culture through hands-on learning, independent projects, and a seminar series that exposes them to the roles and responsibilities of major functions within a biotech company.
International Student Tax Overview
��️ Tuesday, February 18 | ⏱️ 3-4pm | �� Zoom
Join ISO to learn about the United States tax reporting obligations for F-1 and J-1 students at the University of Rochester. We will discuss tax residency, filing requirements, and resources available to help you navigate the process. In-person registration is full, but it is still possible to register to attend via Zoom.
Scam Alert for International Students
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is warning international students about a scam involving criminals impersonating Chinese police officers. These scammers claim victims are under investigation for crimes in China and coerce them into transferring large amounts of money to avoid arrest. The scheme involves staged phone calls, fake investigations, 24/7 video monitoring, and financial extortion. The FBI encourages victims to report incidents to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or their local FBI office and advises contacting financial institutions and campus security for assistance. For more information, visit the FBI website.
Apply Now for the Disparities in Access to Health Care and Research Course
Developed by community partners, this free course explores how social conditions have impacted health care and research experiences for those who are historically marginalized, creating ongoing health inequalities. Participants will understand these challenges and be better equipped to help change health care and research for the future. The course is open to University faculty, staff, trainees, and students, as well as community members (typically from community-based organizations). Apply by February 17.
Graduate Assistantship - Office of Residential Life and Housing Services
Graduate Assistantships under the Office of Residential Life and Housing Services are currently open, and applications are being accepted for the 2025-2026 academic year. Priority will be given to those who apply by March 14th, 2025. All are part time, and most of them come with compensation that includes a stipend, partial meal plan, and a fully furnished apartment. Any questions can be directed to GradAssistantSelection@UR.Rochester.edu
Open Scholarship Award applications for PhD students
The Office of Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Affairs and Open Scholarship Community Rochester collaborated this year to create the Open Scholarship Awards, a new incentive for PhD students that celebrates those who demonstrated exemplary efforts in making their research open and accessible to the wider community. Applications for these awards are now open and due on February 28 at 11:59 p.m. Up to 15 prizes are available to students from all disciplines in five domains: physical and natural sciences, social sciences, engineering, arts and humanities, and medical sciences.
February ‘BIC-Ture This’ craft events for LGBTQ students
Graduate and undergraduate students from all schools are invited to join the Paul J. Burgett Intercultural Center for February’s LGBTQ artmaking and community-building “BIC-Ture This” events. All supplies are provided, and no prior experience is needed. Register to attend:
• Scarf-knitting on Friday, February 28, at 7 p.m.; the registration deadline is Monday, February 24.
Meditation Class for the Black Community
Embrace calm and strength in Meditative Guide for Us, a program designed to support the Black community at the University of Rochester. Through techniques like deep breathing, visualization, and guided meditation, this class creates a safe space to address racial stress, prioritize self-care, and unlock your creative potential. Register for the 4-week course starting on March 20th. Open to Black-identifying students, staff, faculty, and allies.
Vehicle Assistance Program
If you’re on a University campus having vehicle trouble, the Department of Transportation and Logistics is ready to lend a helping hand. The Vehicle Assistance Program provides free on-campus assistance to students, employees, and visitors who need help starting a dead battery, inflating a soft tire, or de-icing car locks. Services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, except from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. Friday and Saturday, by calling (585) 275-4524.
Daily Yoga Classes at the GAC
Ignite your inner fire and brighten the cold winter days! Start the Spring semester with yoga to find your inner peace as you establish the new routines. Open to all students, faculty, and staff—no experience needed. Mats and equipment are provided, simply bring yourself and maybe a friend! Strengthen and lengthen with us in the Leibner-Cooper Room at the Goergen Athletic Center. Classes are hosted by Mindful University Project x Yoga Vibe’s experienced yoga teachers. Check our schedules and register for classes, or just drop-in.
University of Michigan Postdoc Preview
Applications are accepted through February 28, 2025.
The University of Michigan Medical School Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies is hosting their annual in person Postdoctoral Preview. The Postdoc Preview is an application-based event where selected candidates will receive a fully funded two-day visit to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor campus. Invited guests will have the opportunity to interview with prospective mentors, network with current postdocs, and learn about life in Ann Arbor. Please email Laura Napieralski with any questions.
Virtual Postdoc Preview with Brown University
��️ Wednesday, March 12 | ⏱️ 12-2pm | �� Virtual
The Office of University Postdoctoral Affairs (OUPA) is excited to announce a Virtual Postdoc Preview for individuals interested in learning more about postdoctoral training at Brown University. This event is scheduled for Wednesday, March 12, 2025, from noon to 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time via Zoom. This event aims at advanced PhD students and current postdoctoral scholars within 1-2 years of completing a doctoral degree. If you have any questions, please contact OUPA by emailing postdoc-affairs@brown.edu. Please click here for more information or click here to register.
Collaborative Researcher at SPIA at the Virginia Tech Research Center
The Public Interest Technology Lab in the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) at the Virginia Tech Research Center, Arlington, Virginia, seeks a highly motivated and collaborative researcher with expertise in public interest technology. The mission of the Public Interest Technology lab is to advance research, education, policy, and practice on the governance, design, and deployment of emerging technologies to serve the public interest. The postdoctoral scholar will join a highly collaborative multi-institutional team of faculty, students, and stakeholders. Individuals with interests in one or more the following topics are encouraged to apply: ethical and societal implications of AI or related technologies; responsible AI/AI governance; technology, policy, and society; biopsychosocial implications of digital technologies; Human-AI Interaction; and/or equity-centered data science and analytics.
| NSF I-Corps Regional Course Information |
MECCC
NSF I-Corps Regional Courses are for university-based STEM researchers and early-stage startup founders who are interested in exploring the market potential of their work and learning entrepreneurial skills. Participants learn to apply “customer discovery” methodology to evaluate the potential for translating their technology innovation from the lab into a successful product and/or service.
This week's social media spotlight features Dr. Esteban Avendano-Fernandez, a PhD candidate, with the Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience. Click on the picture to watch "In a Neuro Minute".
Accommodations
The University of Rochester is committed to providing inclusive experiences and equal access to programs and services. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation, please contact Mary Beth Kitzel. In all situations, a good faith effort (up until the time of the event) will be made to provide accommodations.
OTE Submission Information
Submissions for the weekly Monday edition of OTE are due by Thursday at 5:00 pm. Please submit materials to myHub@urmc.rochester.edu.
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