Hi @Dawid Hanak and everyone, I have been trying to secure postdoc positions for some time now, but have only received rejections. Given the really bad funding and employment situation in academia, especially in fundamental science, the situation is even worse. And fundamental science (physics) is precisely my area of expertise. Therefore, I am attaching my academic CV here for you feedback, comments and reference. It would be great to hear your thoughts on the CV and any advice on how to keep going with repeated setbacks! Best, Arunima

I’m here to help, so tell me, what can I help you with.

Hi @Dawid Hanak and everyone in the community, I’m applying for an academic fellowship. I’d be grateful for feedback on my letter of application (kind of cover letter), especially from people outside my field (physics), since the panel is interdisciplinary. What the fellowship assesses in the letter (3 criteria): 1. Preparedness/track record relative to career stage. 2. Quality, significance, originality of the proposed research + alignment with the fellowship's bequest 3. Why Durham: how persuasive the case is that Durham’s environment (facilities/expertise/groups) is right for the project and aligns with department strategy. What the cover letter must include: - A brief outline of the research in simple, non-technical language (≤200 words). - A statement explaining how the research satisfies the Addison Wheeler bequest: ‘to encourage efforts for increased knowledge of people and their make-up so as to enable them to make better use of their life here on Earth’ - An explanation of why I’m a suitable candidate for the fellowship. What I’d love feedback on: - Is the ≤200-word non-technical project outline understandable to a non-specialist? - Does the letter make a convincing “why me” case quickly? - Does the “why Durham” paragraph sound specific and persuasive (not generic)? - Any sentences that feel unclear, too technical, or repetitive? Thank you.

I’m about to finalise the training programme for this community - this is your last chance to share your input. Tell me what aspects of academic publishing and building your expert profile would you like to develop.

Many of you are here to network but we don’t often know who is doing what - let’s change this: In a few words, please explain what is your core research area. Enjoy!