Postdoctoral training for new doctoral graduates: taking a step beyond a doctorate.

The goal of postdoctoral training is production of scientists capable of successfully pursuing academic and research careers (Patterson & Hanson, 1995). The postdoctoral fellowship is a period of apprenticeship. It is a time when one is fully socialized into an academic and researcher role. Building a successful academic career is a complex process that requires an understanding of institutional norms and practices (Brayley, 1996), which means learning to manage time (Crist, 1999; Rosch & Reich, 1996) and learning the academic culture (Parham, 1987; Vassantachart & Rice, 1997). As a new faculty member, a person needs to learn to fit into the academic world, its values, political system, and language. During postdoctoral training, a fellow will build on his or her doctoral education and develop interdisciplinary partnerships, form a network to support his or her long-term development (Waters, 1996), and have the opportunity to work with a mentor (Sorcinelli, 1994).