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About Postdoc Appreciation Week Germany
Inspired by the celebration of the Postdoc Appreciation Week in the USA and the UK, the PAW Germany coordination team invited researchers and research institutions, postdoc coordinators and research administrators all over Germany to join us in creating a special program, events and a social media campaign to honor the incredible work of postdocs! The initiative was well taken and our colleagues and postdoc networks all over the country quickly put together a great program with a wide range of topics – most of them online and open for attendees from any institution in Germany.
Postdocs

Postdocs become the center and focus! It is a special week to highlight, recognise and celebrate all their contributions to research and academic life!

Events

Institutions and networks host a variety of events and initiatives for postdocs all over Germany!

Visibility

During the PAW's social media campaign, institutions and supervisors are encouraged to share their support and appreciation towards postdocs' contributions to research and academic life!

Network

The Postdoc Appreciation Week offers many opportunities to meet and interact with other postdocs and academics all over Germany!

PAW 2026 Kick-Off Event Improving Research Culture in Germany
To celebrate Postdoc Appreciation Week this year, the PAW coordinators are inviting everyone to join us for the kick-off on Monday, 21 September from 10:00–11:30 am!
We are delighted that Dr Gisela Kopp, Prof Hani Harb and Dr Oliver Grewe will be joining us to promote the ``Best Research Environment Award`` from Die Junge Akademie and the Volkswagen Foundation. The award highlights the importance of a positive research environment for scientific achievement and recognises the value of supporting and appreciating each individual researcher, as well as honouring the contributions of all members of the research community to scientific progress. Join us to find out more and gain actionable insights on how to create a great research environment!
PAW Kick-Off 2026

About the kick-off:

Celebrate the 5th Anniversary of Postdoc Appreciation Week Germany with our online kick-off event. Join us to explore how to cultivate creative, successful, and positive research environments.

Highlights:

  • Presentation of the “Best Research Environment Award” by Junge Akademie and Volkswagen Foundation, including its background, criteria, and impact.
  • You will gain actionable insights for enhancing your local research culture, which are relevant for postdocs, PIs, staff, administrators and university leaders.
  • Hear real-world examples from award recipients who will share the measures they have implemented, their successes, and the lessons they have learned.

This event is a must for anyone passionate about shaping the future of research culture.

Click HERE to register or scan the QR code

Share Your Voice Postdoc Appreciation Week!
The PAW started and we want to hear from you! What were your highlights from the Postdoc Appreciation Week events? Did you find them informative and engaging? Which topics resonated with you the most? Take our quick survey and let us know!

Take our quick survey in just 2 minutes!
Scan or click the QR code to share your thoughts and help us improve!

QR code feedback survey PAW 2025
Postdoc Appreciation Week Around the World
Postdoc Appreciation Week (PAW) is an annual celebration of the contributions and achievements of postdoctoral researchers around the world. The first PAW was organised in 2009 by the National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) in the United States, with the goal of recognising the vital role that postdocs play in advancing scientific research and innovation. Since its inception, PAW has grown into a global event, with institutions and organisations from several countries, including Canada, Ireland, Germany, Portugal, the UK and, most recently, Austria and the Netherlands participating in the celebration. The week-long event is typically held in the third week of September and features a range of activities, like seminars, workshops, social events, and more. PAW is an opportunity for institutions to express their appreciation for the hard work and dedication of their postdoctoral researchers, and to recognise the significant contributions they make to the scientific community. It's also a chance for postdocs to connect with their colleagues, share their experiences, and celebrate their achievements.
University of Calgary - Canada
Postdoc Appreciation Week - Netherlands
Postdoc Appreciation Week - Austria
Contact Us
Are you interested in the Postdoc Appreciation Week? Reach out and find out how you can participate and join this celebratory week!
Discover the German Postdoc Network Your Hub for Support, Representation & Connection!
As part of Postdoc Appreciation Week Germany, we are excited to highlight the German Postdoc Network—a nationwide initiative dedicated to empowering postdoctoral researchers across Germany.

Are you a postdoc looking to:

  • Connect with peers and expand your professional network?
  • Navigate the German research landscape with confidence?
  • Access vital resources, career opportunities, and support structures?

The German Postdoc Network is here to help! They work to:

  • Represent postdoc interests and influence policies that shape your career.
  • Provide up-to-date information and tools to support your professional and personal growth.
  • Foster a sense of community and collaboration among postdocs nationwide.

Join GPN and unlock year-round opportunities!

  • Attend free, open events on research culture, the German academic system, career perspectives, and more.
  • Lead or join active working groups to shape ideas, build connections, and make an impact.
  • Access the Info Hub for essential postdoc resources.

Get involved and grow with GPN! Click on any of the images below to learn more and connect today.

Logo German Postdoc Network