September 21-25, 2026, is National Postdoc Appreciation Week. Since 2009, the National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) has sponsored this annual celebration to recognize the significant contributions that postdoctoral scholars make to research and scientific discovery. Check out the NPA website to view the virtual and in-person events being held this week.
This week, BPS will be highlighting postdoc members on the blog. Today, we're hearing an update from Claire Stewart, Stanford University, originally spotlighted in 2025. Click here to read her first spotlight.
Background & Inspiration
-
Can you tell us a little about your background and what brought you to your current postdoc position?
Before my collegiate experiences, I always knew I wanted to lifelong career in science. My journey to a postdoc position started with a lot of trial and error to find what type of research I would most like to focus on. I was privileged enough to be a part of many summer research experiences as an undergraduate that ranged from working in public health, to nanotechnology. It was from these experiences, that I was able to find what I enjoyed the most, protein biophysics.
-
What inspired you to pursue research in your field?
My fascination with proteins is still a big inspiration to pursue research in my field. As the field of protein science progresses, my awe continues and drives me to contribute to the work. Another source of inspiration that has recently emerged to the forefront is the opportunity to investigate the potential use of various proteins for therapeutics.
Daily Work & Routine
-
What does a typical day look like for you as a postdoc?
I am a creature of habit and like my routine, so my day-to-day is still very similar to as it was previously. Specifically, with me starting and ending my days working doing deskwork.
-
Do you have a favorite part of your daily routine—or a task you look forward to most?
Analyzing new results is still one of the highlights of my day since new data also sparks my mind to explore more research directions. A close second, is checking in on my mentees. Their excitement with the work they can do and accomplish, always fills me with joy.
-
What’s one part of your day that people might find surprising or unexpected?
While preparing figures and a manuscript as I get new results still might be the most unexpected thing I do every day, another thing that might shock people is that I completely shutdown my computer. I close all the applications and the browser tabs so I can start fresh the next day.
Research & Impact
-
Can you briefly describe your research project and why it matters?
Lyme disease remains one of the most common vector-borne illnesses, and its prevalence continues to increase. Since the causative bacterium is still poorly characterized, significant efforts are still focused on understanding the organism and its underlying biological processes.
-
What’s the most exciting discovery or moment you’ve had during your postdoc so far?
Growing protein crystals is still one of the biggest highlights of my postdoc so far. I have now had a few proteins crystalize and diffract and the excitement has is still there every time.
Personal Touch
-
How do you balance life in the lab with life outside of it?
Having dedicated time to do things outside of lab is how managed to maintain good work-life balance. I make time every week to spend time with my friends and family. I also like to make sure I have at least one day a week to do my hobbies.
-
What hobbies or activities help you recharge after work?
Having a creative outlet to turn to after work is still my favorite way to recharge. While I still mostly knit and crochet, I have also started exploring drawing and coloring as new ways to relax and refresh.
-
Any fun lab quirks?
Recently, I started snacking on chocolates or chips when I’m making figures in the afternoon. It’s become so common that other members of the lab will bring me them to snack on around when I settle down to start working.
Advice & Future
-
What advice would you give to someone just starting a postdoc?
I still believe that being a postdoc is such a fun experience that it can fly by. So, first and foremost, any new postdoc should stay present and enjoy their time.
Like any new beginning, starting a postdoc can be intimidating, but I believe anyone in this position should first build a strong community that can support them. A postdoc can be isolating, so having others around you who are at a similar stage can be incredibly helpful. Joining affinity groups or even taking courses can be great ways to start building a community.
-
Where do you see yourself heading next in your career?
I still plan to become a professor and lead my own research group. I am now seeking faculty positions where I can continue pursuing my passion for research in protein science.