The Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) at the University of Cape Town (UCT) marked a historic moment on 12 June 2025 with the official launch of its inaugural Postdoctoral Council (PDC) — a pioneering initiative designed to support, represent and connect postdoctoral research fellows across the faculty.

The event, held in a warm and collegial atmosphere, began with a welcome address by Associate Professor Lionel Green-Thompson, dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences. His words set the tone for an afternoon of vision-sharing, reflection and community-building.

At the heart of the event was the introduction of the newly formed council , a dynamic group of postdoctoral researchers stepping into leadership to address the unique needs of their peers. The council is co-chaired by Tshepiso Mbangiwa and Dr Carly Young-Bailie, supported by treasurer Ian Mbano, secretary Shantelle Claassen-Weitz, and steering members Sai Naidoo, Monika Looney and Ziphozihle Ntwatwa.

Building a Stronger Postdoc Community

The council has identified four key focus areas that will shape its work: community and social connection; career development; policy and wellbeing; and research support.

On the social front, regular events like a monthly Coffee Club at the IDM cafeteria and quarterly “Postdoc Pints” in the MAC room are planned to help postdocs network and find solidarity. Branded T-shirts were handed out at the launch — a symbolic gesture to foster visibility and unity.

Career development will be tackled through a new Career Club series, where invited speakers — including UCT alumni and biotech entrepreneurs — will share career pathways, offer mentorship and advertise opportunities in academia and beyond.

Advocating for Wellbeing and Fair Policy

One of the most significant accomplishments to date is the approval of UCT’s first-ever Disciplinary Policy for Postdoctoral Fellows, a long-overdue step towards formal recognition and protection. A new payroll system is also set to launch in August 2025, giving fellows more flexibility in how they receive their stipends — monthly, quarterly or biannually.

The council is actively negotiating a minimum annual stipend of R350 000, basic medical aid support and improved parental leave options. Plans are also underway for a Postdoc Support Hub — a centralised resource for wellbeing, policies and mental health services.

Fuelling Research and Collaboration

In the research sphere, the council is getting creative. A planned “Postdoc Speed Dating” networking session will lead into a “Dragon’s Den”-style pitch competition, with funding awarded to the best collaborative proposals.

The PDC is also advocating for publication fee support, often a barrier for non-salaried postdocs, and is establishing a Grant Mentorship Directory to connect fellows with experienced researchers. Thematic workshops targeting major funders such as Wellcome Trust, NRF, and NIH will be offered throughout the year.

A Call to Collaborate

The launch of the FHS Postdoctoral council is not just the beginning of a new structure — it’s the start of a movement. One that aims to reshape the postdoc experience at UCT into something more supported, visible and valued.

Slides from the launch event are available for download here. The council welcomes suggestions and looks forward to building this community together.