Individual Development Plan (IDP) for Postdoctoral Researchers

What is an IDP?

  • mechanism to help identify the strengths and interests of a participant;
  • process for identifying areas of little interest or weaknesses;
  • generally includes carefully worded questionnaire;
  • to be used as personal assessment and planning vehicle.

More background information is available from NIH. Please note that IDPs are a requirement for postdoctoral researchers that are funded by NIH, NSF, and other federal agencies.

How do I develop an IDP?

An IDP template is available for download from the IBC website. It is recommended to generate an IDP at the beginning of the employment of a postdoctoral researcher and assess progress on an annual basis. This is a document that needs input from both the postdoctoral researcher and the supervisor. It should also be regarded as a living document that can be changed if necessary.