Dr. Shakila Merchant, Director, CUNY CREST HIRES was invited to participate in the Career Development Retreat for Postdocs hosted by the The National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Education, Engagement, & Early- Career Development’s (EDEC) ASP Postdoctoral Fellowship Program in Breckenridge, Colorado. The retreat was funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and held from August 31st to September 1, 2023.
The purpose of this retreat was to engage postdocs in professional development and career planning sessions as well as help them network. Several topics that were curated by NCAR/UCAR postdocs were discussed. These included ‘Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training, project management, leadership and communication skills, personal finance and planning, work-life balance, and health.’
Commenting on her experience of the retreat, Dr. Merchant said, “NCAR provides excellent research, educational, professional development and networking opportunities for everyone, especially early career professionals. The NCAR community is a very supportive resource and inclusive place to be affiliated with!.”
Further, Dr. Merchant participated in the NCAR Day of Discovery (DoD) held on September 5, 2023 and in several meetings/discussions with NCAR and University Corporation Atmospheric Research (UCAR) members held from September 6 to 7, 2023, in Colorado. This event is NCAR’s best practice since 2015.
During the event, participants engaged in several talks on research and education and panel discussions. The NCAR DoD provided great networking opportunities for all attendees.
