Future Faculty Program

Current Position: Postdoctoral Scholar, Stanford University, SUNCAT Center for Interfacial Science and Catalysis

“I began my PhD at UH studying and simulating battery materials with the intent of pursuing a career in academia, but I didn’t fully appreciate what being a professor meant or required. The abundance of data and examples presented in the Future Faculty Program helped me understand the roles/responsibilities of faculty and taught me how to take an active role in shaping my academic career. The first section was an honest and unbiased comparison between academia and industry with Pradeep providing many personal details from his time in industry (salaries, work hours, benefits, expectations, job responsibilities, etc.). Later sections provided a deep dive into the faculty application process including application strategies, requirements, overview of search committees, and even sample applications from current faculty. The small group setting encouraged asking questions and soliciting honest, helpful feedback. The FFP was also one of the best ways to practice and learn skills relating to teaching, networking, presenting, and grant writing which help in the transition from student to independent researcher. After graduating, I started a postdoctoral research position at Stanford designing materials for artificial photosynthesis and converting CO2 from the atmosphere back into useful chemicals. The skills and information from this program helped prepare me for my current postdoc and armed me with many useful tools for my academic career.”