I. Project & Research:
* About the project:
* Can you describe the project in more detail? What are the specific goals and objectives?
* What are the key methodologies involved? What techniques will I be learning or using?
* What are the anticipated timelines and deliverables? Are there milestones?
* What are the potential challenges or risks associated with the project?
* What are the opportunities for publication and dissemination of findings?
* How independent will I be in designing and conducting my research?
* What resources (funding, equipment, personnel) are available for the project?
* How will the success of the project be measured? What are the key metrics?
* Are there any existing data or resources I can leverage?
* About the lab/group:
* What is the overall research focus of the lab/group?
* What is the lab culture like? (e.g., collaborative, competitive, supportive)
* How many other postdocs and graduate students are in the group?
* What is the mentorship style of the PI and other senior researchers? How often will we meet?
* How much guidance and supervision can I expect?
* Are there regular lab meetings? What are they like?
* What opportunities are there for collaboration within the lab and with other groups?
* Is there a formal mentorship program?
II. Funding & Resources:
* Funding:
* How is the postdoc position funded? (Grant, departmental funds, etc.)
* What is the duration of the funding? Is there a possibility of renewal?
* What is the salary and benefits package? (Health insurance, retirement plan, etc.)
* Will there be funds for travel to conferences or collaborations?
* Resources:
* What computational resources are available (high-performance computing, software licenses, etc.)?
* What equipment and facilities are available?
* Is there dedicated lab space allocated to me?
III. Career Development & Future:
* Training & Development:
* What opportunities are there for professional development (conferences, workshops, training courses)?
* Will I have the opportunity to present my work at conferences?
* Are there opportunities to mentor junior researchers?
* Will I have the chance to develop grant-writing skills?
* What support will be provided for career planning and job searching after the postdoc?
* Future Prospects:
* What are the potential career paths following this postdoc?
* Have past postdocs from this lab successfully transitioned into academic or industry positions?
* What are the PI's views on my career aspirations?
IV. Institutional Context:
* Department/Institution:
* What is the overall research environment like at the department/institution?
* What are the resources and facilities available at the institution (libraries, core facilities, etc.)?
* What is the location like (living costs, amenities, etc.)?
* What is the institutional support for postdocs (e.g., workshops, networking events)?
V. Before Accepting:
* Can I speak with current or former postdocs in the lab?
* What is the process for submitting my application materials?
* What is the timeline for the hiring process?
Remember to tailor your questions to the specific position and your own circumstances. Don't hesitate to ask follow-up questions to clarify any points. Asking thoughtful questions demonstrates your interest and engagement and helps you make an informed decision.