Holistic academic development and academic identity in the liminal postdoctoral zone

Postdoctoral experiences within the academic development literature have been under-explored, particularly within the themes of being and becoming. This reflection delves into the transformative nature of postdoctoral transitions, closely aligned to the concept of liminality – a state that challenges established certainties, rendering them problematic and fluid. Through a duo-autoethnographic lens, we examine the first author’s journey from a PhD candidate to postdoctoral researcher, concurrently examining the mentoring role of the second author. Our focus extends to how academic developers can enhance support for postdocs in shaping their academic identities. By shedding light on the liminal spaces between academia’s defined stages, we contribute to the discourse surrounding postdoctoral experiences, emphasizing the need for nuanced guidance and support in navigating this crucial phase of academic development.