Postdocs usually start their scientific career hoping that they will be able to obtain a permanent position after completing some temporary contracts. Unfortunately, permanent positions are limited, and the competition is fierce. Therefore, at a certain point Postdocs will have to ask themselves if they want to continue pursuing a scientific career, or to consider alternative possibilities outside academia. Experience shows that not only this decision is difficult to make by yourself, but the idea of letting go of a career in which you have invested so much time and effort can be frightening. Especially if you do not know what a suitable alternative could be.

The Wageningen Graduate Schools (WGS) offers a program to Postdocs who may find themselves at such a crossroads, allowing them to reflect on their career perspectives as scientists through an analysis of both their professional and personal strengths and weaknesses. The program addresses professional opportunities and challenges, as well as the competencies needed to successfully present oneself on the job market (either within or outside of the academic field). In the event that a program participant is open to alternative career opportunities, s/he will also receive support re-assessing her/his career plan.