The Future Faculty Fellows (FFF) program in Rice’s George R. Brown School of Engineering and Computing is designed to help PhD students and postdocs explore the tenure track academic career path, compete successfully for tenure track faculty positions, and launch their careers. The program is divided into three levels, corresponding with readiness to apply for tenure track faculty positions.
Program Goals
The Future Faculty Fellow Program aims to help participants:
- Understand the range of faculty opportunities available and identify which ones align with their career goals (Level 1)
- Develop an understanding of the faculty hiring process (Level 2 and 3)
- Develop skills and materials to apply and interview for faculty positions (Level 2 and 3)
- Become aware of and understand the skills and resources needed to transition successfully into a faculty position (Level 3)
- Network with other students and faculty across campus (all levels)
Benefits of the Program
The Future Faculty Fellows Program prepares graduate students and postdocs for careers in academia by:
- Providing workshops, panel discussions, and networking events tailored to academic career pathways.
- Featuring tenure-track faculty who share insights about their experiences and provide guidance during events.
- Offering opportunities for participants to network with tenure-track faculty after events.
- Supporting Level 3 fellows with:
- A $1,000 stipend to support travel.
- Access to focused events and mentoring tailored to their needs.
- Participation in mock interviews and mock job talks.
- Opportunities for one-on-one consultations to support their preparation for faculty positions.
Exploration
All Rice Engineering and Computing PhD students and postdocs can attend these events to explore the idea of pursuing a career in academia as tenure track faculty.
Read MoreLevel 1 fellows can learn more about careers in academia through workshops and panels such as Faculty Life and Benefits of a Career in Academia.
Preparation
All Rice Engineering and Computing PhD and postdocs can attend these events to prepare for applying for tenure track faculty positions in 1 to 2 years.
Read MoreLevel 2 participants can obtain resources and mentorship to prepare their job applications.
Level 2 participants interested in applying to be Level 3 Future Faculty Fellows should review the application process and participate in Level 2 events.
- Complete the virtual and self-paced TA Training on Canvas. For access, email us at engineering@rice.edu
- Attend Workshop: Academic Networking
- Attend Workshop: Hiring Priorities and Cover Letter
Application
Rice Engineering and Computing PhD and postdocs who are applying for tenure track faculty positions during the fall semester can apply to be Level 3 Future Faculty Fellows.
Read MoreLevel 3 includes one-on-one consultations with the School of Engineering Communications faculty and workshops focused on job applications (fall) and preparing for faculty positions (spring). Space is limited and an application is required
Future Faculty Fellows Reports
2023–2024 (PDF)
2022–2023 (PDF)
2020–2021 (PDF)
2019–2020 (PDF)