Writing and Communication Programs for Postdocs

Wed Sep 23 17:09:16 EDT 2026

Dear Postdoctoral Scholars,

On behalf of the Writing and Communication Center, I invite you to take advantage of the writing and communication programs we design for advanced scholars and researchers working on written and oral communication. Below are some of the upcoming offerings.

Please note that the application for the Public Speaking Certificate program closes Thursday night, and the workshop series "From Idea to Draft" launches on Thursday, September 24th, at 4pm. Registration for all other programs remains open.

We would be thrilled to work with you on your projects.

Best wishes,
Elena

The Application for the Public Speaking Certificate Program Closes Soon

Applications deadline extended to Thursday, Sep 24th, 11pm

Register: https://forms.gle/V15r6C6k2KpJgzug9

Presenting your research to a general audience takes a different skill set than presenting it to your lab or your field. Through workshops, practice talks, and individual coaching, you will learn to frame your work, cut jargon, and handle tough questions. The program is designed to help MIT graduate students and postdocs become more confident, effective, and versatile speakers through workshops, personalized coaching, hands-on practice, and performance-based feedback. I For more information, check the WCC website at http://cmsw.mit.edu/public-speaking-certificate-program/.

>From Idea to Draft (5-sessions series of workshops)

When: Sep 24, 29; Oct 1, 6, 8, 4-5:30 pm
Where: E17-136, 40 Ames St.
Register: https://forms.gle/9u34JLYpzEeRaXCS7

Ready to tackle your next MIT research and writing project? This hands-on workshop series will guide you through every stage of the writing process from exploring and narrowing your topic to crafting a polished, meaningful draft. Across five sessions, you will learn how to engage in scholarly conversations, build compelling arguments, structure your ideas with clarity, navigate the ethical use of GenAI in your writing, and articulate why your work matters.

Designed for anyone who wants to build or refresh their academic writing skills, these workshops offer a stress-free, non-competitive, and supportive environment where you can learn, practice, and grow as an academic writer. Whether you are just getting started or looking to sharpen your process, join us to move from your idea to a draft.

Individual Consultations and Coaching Sessions with WCC Instructors

When: Every weekday, Monday through Friday 9am-6pm

Where: E18-233 (for in-person sessions) and by Zoom (for remote sessions)

Register: https://mit.mywconline.com<https://mit.mywconline.com/>

Hurry to schedule your next WCC consultation or coaching session to get help with oral and written work. We provide free support at all stages of the communication process, from brainstorming to the final draft. We mentor through writer’s blocks including procrastination, perfectionism, demoralization, and imposter stress. We’ll listen to you run through your presentations, help you fine-tune your prose, and streamline your trouble spots. You can learn more about consultations at t<http://cmsw.mit.edu/writing-and-communication-center>he WCC website<https://cmsw.mit.edu/writing-and-communication-center/appointments/> and book appointments with the online scheduler<https://mit.mywconline.com/>.

Boost Your Presentation Skills with the Oral Communication Studio!

When: Every weekday, Monday through Friday 9am-6pm

Where: E18-233H, 50 Ames St., WCC

Learn more and schedule: https://cmsw.mit.edu/writing-and-communication-center/wcc-communication-and-technology-studio/

The Writing and Communication Center invites you to use an Oral Communication Studio to help you enhance your public speaking skills. At the studio, you can practice your presentations in front of simulated audiences and receive instant feedback from the PitchVantage software. To get started, reserve the studio at https://mit.mywconline.com/ by choosing the Oral Communication Studio schedule and begin practicing your presentations. For first-time users, please schedule an orientation session in the same schedule.

Build Up Healthy Writing Habits with Writing Together Online (open for registration)

When: Every Mon, Wed, Fri 9-10:30 am; Tue, Thu 9-10:15am and 10:15-11:30am, through Fri, Oct 23

Where: Zoom (you will receive the link after you register)

Register: https://forms.gle/xcLggq2jQzTfX2UK8

Writing Together Online offers structured writing time to help you stay focused and productive during the busy fall months. Join our daily 90-minute writing sessions and become part of a community of scholars who connect online, set realistic goals, and write together in the spirit of accountability and camaraderie. We offer writing sessions every workday, Monday through Friday. The program is open to all MIT students, postdocs, faculty, staff, and affiliates who are working on papers, proposals, chapters, application materials, and other writing projects. Students and postdocs who attend at least 5 sessions per challenge will be entered into a raffle of $25-TechCash prizes.

_____________________________
Elena Kallestinova, Ph.D.
Director, Writing and Communication Center<https://cmsw.mit.edu/writing-and-communication-center/> (WCC)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Office: E18-233B, 50 Ames Street, Cambridge, MA 02139

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