Key Resources
Foundational Programs
We encourage all graduate students beginning late in their second year or during their third year to participate in one of three foundational opportunities that engage participants in the professional development cycle as it realates to career development.
The Columbia University Individual Development Plan (IDP) Program
The Columbia University Individual Development Plan (IDP) Program supports PhD students and postdoctoral researchers in managing their careers through all stages of the professional development cycle. Participants gain tools for self-assessment, goal setting, and planning, while developing skills applicable across diverse career paths. The program emphasizes the value of the IDP as a personalized, evolving guide for professional growth. It is a collaborative initiative of Columbia Engineering, the Coordinated Doctoral Programs in Biomedical Sciences, the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, and the Office for Postdoctoral Affairs and Early Career Research. Open to all disciplines across Columbia University.
PhD Career Ladder Program
The PhD Career Ladder Program (PCLP) is an evidence-based program that supports participants in gaining clarity and confidence in their career path through self-assessment, networking strategies, and skill planning. Offered locally at least yearly, the program provides peer-driven, evidence-informed career exploration for PhD Pathway students in VIBRE and postdoctoral fellows. The program consists of eight, 1.5-hour, in-person sessions over 10 weeks.
Beyond the Professorate
Beyond the Professoriate is a comprehensive career-training platform provided for biomedical PhD students and postdocs at Columbia, guiding them through Discover, Research, Implement, and Build stages. In Discover, users clarify their values, strengths, and define a “rubric” for evaluating careers. The Research phase helps explore fields aligned with these criteria. In Implement, participants receive structured job-search tactics for academic and non-academic roles. Finally, Build provides access to video interviews and alumni insights, supporting ongoing career growth. The platform combines self-paced modules with live workshops to boost confidence and outcomes.
Supported Resources and Memberships
Internal Opportunity Database
Students have access to a searchable database aligned with our professional development model. It contains regularly occurring or available development resources and opportunities related to academic training and career development with a focus on highly rated or recognized opportunities across a number of skills and career domains. Students are encouraged to use it as they develop and regularly revisit their development plans.
New York Academy of Sciences Membership
New York Academy of Sciences (NYAS) membership, supported by VIBRE PhD Pathways, provides graduate students in biomedical fields with valuable resources for professional and career development. Student members gain access to interdisciplinary scientific programming, career development and, mentorship opportunities, helping students broaden their professional horizons and connect with experts across research, industry, and policy sectors.
Columbia LinkedIn Learning
Columbia University offers graduate students free, unlimited access to LinkedIn Learning through Human Resources and CUIT. With over 23,000 expert-led video courses, students can build technical, leadership, and professional skills at their own pace. Courses are organized into short “Learning Paths” and “Challenges” on topics like AI, goal setting, and habit-building, supporting career growth and complementing academic training.