Episode 12: lonely campus podcast with Claire Perrott (Postdoc Episode)
Episode 12 of the lonely campus podcast focuses on postdocs and features Claire Perrott, a Professional Development Postdoctoral Fellow in the Office of Research. Claire educates the listener on what it means to be a postdoc, with the goal of familiarizing the campus community with the unique postdoctoral experience. Claire talks about many positive aspects about being a postdoc as well as some of the challenges that come with the role.
One of the possible challenges postdocs might face is loneliness. Postdoc positions are transient by nature and postdocs may feel isolated given the intensity of producing high-quality research while preparing for the next step in their careers. Claire also shares her personal journey, transitioning from tenure-track faculty to administration, and her efforts to support postdocs in building community and professional development. She emphasizes the importance of intentional efforts to find connection, whether through hobbies or university resources. Claire’s work in the newly established Office of Postdoctoral Affairs focuses on creating opportunities for postdocs to come together, to share experiences, and to foster a sense of belonging during their time at SU.
Hosted and edited by Amy Messersmith. Transcript available upon request.
One of the possible challenges postdocs might face is loneliness. Postdoc positions are transient by nature and postdocs may feel isolated given the intensity of producing high-quality research while preparing for the next step in their careers. Claire also shares her personal journey, transitioning from tenure-track faculty to administration, and her efforts to support postdocs in building community and professional development. She emphasizes the importance of intentional efforts to find connection, whether through hobbies or university resources. Claire’s work in the newly established Office of Postdoctoral Affairs focuses on creating opportunities for postdocs to come together, to share experiences, and to foster a sense of belonging during their time at SU.
Hosted and edited by Amy Messersmith. Transcript available upon request.
Creators and Guests
Host
Amy Messersmith
Amy Messersmith is one of two inaugural Office of Diversity and Inclusion Administrative Fellows at Syracuse University. She is the Associate Director of Student Support Services (SSS) and works closely with the Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP). HEOP and SSS are two opportunity programs that serve undergraduates at SU, many who are first generation college students. Amy collaborated with a team of likeminded staff and faculty to create The SENSES Project in 2021, which is a student focused recording studio and podcasting program for HEOP and SSS students and their friends. If you want to share your story on the lonely campus podcast, please email Amy at akhoran@syr.edu.
Guest
Claire Perrott
Claire Perrott is a Professional Development Postdoctoral Fellow in the Office of Research at Syracuse University.
