The Importance of the IDP – Why Should You Make One?
Mentees are strongly encouraged to generate an individualized development plan (IDP) before completing the mentoring plan with their mentor. For tips on how to get started, check out this article.
Other tools for generating IDPs can be found at:
- STEM Fields: myidp.sciencecareers.org
- Humanities and Social Science Fields: imaginephd.com
The IDP will identify the areas of development for the mentee and annual goals to achieve progress. Participation in programs or structured mentoring activities in areas of professional development will contribute to the postdoctoral scholar’s progress towards his or her goals.
Examples of mentoring activities include:
- Career counseling
- Training in preparation of grant proposals, publications, and presentations
- Guidance on ways to improve teaching and mentoring skills
- Guidance on how to effectively collaborate with researchers from diverse backgrounds and disciplinary areas
- Training in responsible professional practices
For a comprehensive list of the programs offered by the OPA and other campus units, please visit our Career Development page.
National Postdoc Association (NPA) Resources
The National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) has established six core competencies to offer guidance to individual postdoctoral scholars who must seek out relevant training experiences, in collaboration with mentors, institutions, and other advisors who provide this training.
Individual Development Plan
The following is a template that postdocs and their mentors can use to create an individual development plan.