Prepare Well and Enjoy the Journey.

At a time when funding levels are low and the prospect of securing a tenure-track faculty position in academia seems daunting, the level of uncertainty entering the postdoctoral training stage is at an all-time high. The goal of this article is to encourage trainees to remain optimistic about their future and to reassure graduate students and postdocs pursuing academic careers that with hard work, meticulous planning and attention to detail, there is hope for a successful transition to independence. The postdoctoral position itself should be thought of as temporary, where early career scientists receive mentored training to develop their skills and establish an independent research niche before they actively seek and accept a career position. This article outlines several important factors to consider before and during your postdoc to help increase your likelihood of success.