UT System Postdoc Symposium | September 14, 2026
About the Symposium
The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin is proud to host the third University of Texas System Postdoc Research Symposium on Monday, September 14, 2026 on the UT Austin campus.
This event will bring postdocs, faculty and leaders from the University of Texas System together to promote postdoctoral research contributions to higher education and the broader research enterprise.
This year's theme is Success in a Dynamic Research Landscape.
Registration and Abstracts
Registration
UT System Postdoc Symposium
Texas Union, UT Austin
Monday, September 14, 2026
8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Reception to follow from 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Register for the symposium by August 31, 2026.
Abstract Submission
Postdoc attendees are encouraged to submit an abstract for the poster session. Recently presented posters are allowed.
The abstract submission is part of the symposium registration form.
Deadline to submit an abstract is August 14, 2026.
Agenda
Ready to plan your day?
Download the agenda for the symposium to get a look at the schedule.
More details will be provided as they are available.
Events and Details
Career Panels
Participants can engage in interactive discussions on academic, industry, government and non-profit career paths.
Panel 1: A panel of Former Postdoctoral Scholars shares firsthand experiences, career insights, and practical advice on navigating the transition from postdoctoral training to a variety of professional career paths.
Panel 2: A panel of Industry Hiring Managers brings together experienced professionals from a variety of organizations to share insights into current hiring trends, workforce expectations, and career opportunities to help postdocs succeed in today's competitive job market.
Postdoc Power Chats
Participate in interactive small-group discussions on topics including international postdoc experiences, entrepreneurship, turning setbacks into success, using AI in the job search, and careers in teaching. Participants will rotate among tables, giving them the opportunity to engage in multiple discussions and connect with a variety of speakers and peers.
Poster Session
Explore innovative research and engage with postdoctoral scholars during the poster session, where presenters will share their work and discuss their findings in an interactive setting.
Sign up to present your research during the Poster Session and showcase the breadth and impact of your scholarship and innovation. Outstanding presentations will be recognized with first-, second-, and third-place awards. Submit your abstract now.
Deadline to submit your abstract is August 14, 2026.
Speakers
The symposium will include invited talks from leaders in research, professional development and higher education.
More details on speakers to come!
Meet and Connect
Engage in networking activities throughout the day to meet fellow postdocs and strengthen the UT System postdoctoral community.
Plan to join us for the evening reception following the symposium at 4:30 p.m.
Travel and Lodging
Participants are responsible for funding their own transportation and overnight lodging.
AT&T Hotel and Conference Center
1900 University Ave.
Austin, TX 78705 (Google Maps)
(512) 404-1900
Book Your Stay
Located on The University of Texas at Austin campus and owned by the University, the AT&T Hotel and Conference Center offers an immersive experience that carries all the benefits of being on campus and steps from downtown.
Symposium attendees will receive a discounted rate of $204 for the night of September 13. To obtain this discount, attendees MUST use the link above to book your room. Deadline to book your stay with the discounted rate is August 14, 2026. If you need additional room nights, please contact Del Watson at del.watson@austin.utexas.edu.
Directions to the Texas Union from the AT&T Hotel and Conference Center
The Texas Union is located within walking distance of the AT&T Hotel and Conference Center. (Google Maps Walking Directions)
Hotel Guest Parking
Parking is available in the attached Conference Center Garage. Guests may self-park or use the valet services at the University Avenue entrance. More information on hotel guest parking.
Airport Information
The Austin–Bergstrom International Airport is 8.5 miles from the AT&T Hotel and Conference Center.
Cap Metro offers bus service to The University of Texas at Austin campus. Visit their site for more information. Ride share options are readily available at the airport.
Getting Around Austin
Cap Metro bus service is available to help you explore Austin with fares at $1.25 per ride. Use the CapMetro App or their trip planner to guide your travels. Ride share options are also available throughout Austin.
Location, Maps and Parking
Location
Texas Union, 3.502 Santa Rita Room
2308 Whitis Ave.
Austin, TX 78712 (Google Maps)
The symposium will take place on the UT Austin campus in the Texas Union which is located at 2308 Whitis Avenue, near the intersection of 23rd Street and Guadalupe Street.
Check-in will begin at 8 a.m. in the Santa Rita Room (room 3.502) on the third floor of the Texas Union. (Texas Union Floor Plan Map)
Map
Parking
The closest paid parking garage to the Texas Union is the San Antonio Garage at 2420 San Antonio Street ($18 daily rate).
Hourly paid on-street parking is also available within a few blocks of the Texas Union. Please be aware of signs for parking rules if choosing to park on the street.
Share the Event Flyer
Download the event flyer to share with fellow postdocs and faculty and encourage them to join us!
Contact Us
For more information about the symposium, contact the UT Austin Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.
