Develop connections, gain insight, and prepare for your future in academia.
Fall 2026
The Path of Professorship workshop is an annual multi-day workshop preparing MIT graduate students and post-doctoral researchers to enter careers in academia. The event is designed for attendees who identify as or support the unique experiences of women. Women and non-binary professors from MIT and a diverse range of colleges and universities share about their experiences in academia in an exciting and informative weekend. This workshop is sponsored by MIT Career Advising & Professional Development and the Office of Graduate Education, with support for postdoctoral researchers from the Office of the Vice President for Research.
The workshop is open to individuals who identify and or support the unique experiences of women and other underrepresented gender groups. Its aim is to provide information about academic scientific careers and the application process.
Participants who successfully attend the conference can complete additional requirements to earn the Path of Professorship Certificate.
This workshop was previously developed and offered through the Office of Graduate Education.
Attendees learn:
- Key strategies for applying and interviewing for academic positions
- The importance of networking and how to manage networking with peers and superiors
- Advice from faculty on things you can do now and during your hire to make your tenure-track years as smooth and successful as possible
- Characteristics of different types of universities
- Advice on maintaining a balanced life, in light of rigorous demands of a career in academia
Materials and networking opportunities will be provided.
We are currently accepting applications. The deadline to apply is September 1, 2026.
Sample Program schedule
This program schedule is subject to change.
| Saturday | |
| 8:30-9:00 | Opening Remarks & Overview |
| 9:00-9:55 | Work-life Balance in Academia |
| 10:00-10:30 | Networking/Coffee Break |
| 10:35-11:30 | What type of institution is right for you? |
| 11:35-12:30 | Applying |
| 12:35-1:00 | Lunch |
| 1:00-2:30 | Interview Process |
| 2:30-2:45 | Networking/Coffee Break |
| 2:45-4:15 | Communication workshop |
| 4:15-4:30 | Networking |
| 4:30-5:30 | Keynote |
| Sunday | |
| 9:00-9:55 | How to be a quick start professor |
| 10:00-10:30 | Networking/Coffee break |
| 10:30-11:30 | Funding |
| 11:30-12:30 | Lunch |
| 12:30-1:30 | Fostering community and mentoring in your lab |
| 1:35-2:30 | Leaving a lasting impact on students and community |
| 2:35-3:25 | Closing Remarks |
| 3:30-4:30 | Closing Reception |
