🎉 Celebrate National Postdoc Appreciation Week
September 21–25, 2026 🎉
National Postdoc Appreciation Week (NPAW) is back—and so is our chance to shine a spotlight on the incredible impact of postdoctoral scholars across research, discovery, and innovation.
From September 21–25, 2026, institutions nationwide will host events that celebrate the talent, dedication, and contributions of postdocs to academic life and beyond. At Lehigh, we’re planning a week full of opportunities to connect, reflect, and celebrate. Expect engaging workshops, networking events, sweet surprises, and new ways to showcase your work.
Faculty supervisors and colleagues—NPAW is the perfect time to recognize the postdocs in your lab or department. A simple thank-you can go a long way.
Stay tuned to your inbox for the full lineup!
One Form for All NPAW Event RSVPs
We’ve made signing up easy—RSVP for all NPAW events using one convenient Google form!
You can use it to keep track of which events you’ve registered for, all in one place. If an event requires you to choose a specific time slot, we’ll send you a separate sign-up link after you RSVP.
MONDAY 9/21
Welcome Breakfast & T-shirt Pick-up
When: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: Barnett House, 218 W Packer Avenue
Kick off National Postdoc Appreciation Week with us! Drop by Barnett House to grab a coffee, bagels, and muffins, and pick up your commemorative NPAW t-shirt. No registration needed—just stop in! (Note: T-shirts will also be available at the evening reception if you can't make it to breakfast.)
Free Professional Headshots
When: 5 - 6 PM
Where: Alumni Memorial Building, outside by Asa Packer Statue (rain location same)
We’re excited to welcome photographer Marcus Smith back this year to capture stunning professional headshots—exclusively for Lehigh postdocs. Check out last year's photos
Important: First-time participants only (if you had a headshot taken last year, you’re not eligible). Advance registration required.
TUESDAY 9/22
Polish Your LinkedIn Profile: CCPD Celebrates Postdoc Appreciation Week
When: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: Maginnes Hall, Suite 500
In celebration of Postdoc Appreciation Week, the CCPD invites postdocs and graduate students to stop by the Career Center in Maginnes Hall, Suite 500 to pick up a LinkedIn checklist and gain insights on LinkedIn profile optimization. Presented by the Center for Career & Professional Development and the Postdoctoral Affairs Office.
LPDA Dinner Social!
When: 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Where: TBD
Let’s get together and have a great time! This will be a wonderful opportunity to meet other postdocs, make new friends, and connect in a relaxed and informal setting.
WEDNESDAY 9/18
Annual Postdoc Research Showcase & Appreciation Reception
Research Flashtalks, 3 - 5 PM, Wood Dining Room, Iacocca Hall
Appreciation Reception & Posters, 5 - 7 PM, Wood Dining Room, Iacocca Hall
Join us for a celebration of postdoctoral research!
This program highlights the innovation, dedication, and scholarly impact of our postdoctoral community through engaging talks and posters spanning engineering, the sciences, and interdisciplinary fields. Mentors, lab members, departmental faculty, and chairs are warmly invited to attend, learn about cutting-edge projects, and connect with researchers across disciplines. Refreshments will be served.
For the full program, please visit: Research Showcase ProgramCommunicating Your Science: A Working Session for Postdocs
THURSDAY 9/19
Coffee Meet-up at the Farmer's Market
When: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: Farrington Square, alcove area
Come spend the morning with fellow postdocs at the Bethlehem Farmer’s Market. We’ll have a spot reserved in the lower alcoves where you can relax, chat, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Browse fresh produce, baked goods, and unique local products, and take in the live music that makes the market such a favorite. If it’s your first time, you’re in for a real treat.
Happy Hour @ Bonn Place
When: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Where: Bonn Place, 310 Taylor St, Bethlehem
Unwind and connect with Jenny (Postdoc Office) and Nichole (OISS) for a low-key hangout! Drop in to ask quick questions, catch up with peers, or just relax. Bonn Place offers craft beers alongside plenty of non-alcoholic options, so there’s a drink for everyone—stop by and say hi!
FRIDAY 9/20