
NextProf
Preparing the Next Generation of Engineering Leaders
Explore academic and professional career options
Developed by expert faculty, Michigan Engineering’s annual NextProf workshops have established a reputation as preeminent events in a nationwide effort to strengthen and grow the next generation of academic leaders.
NextProf’s innovative model gives participants a candid view of academic life, along with the tools and network to support their success. Attendees will leave NextProf with a clear understanding of the profession.
- Meet mentors & future collaborators – expanding personal networks
- Attend panel discussions with insightful faculty
- Learn about the faculty search process
- Prepare for the academic job market
- Plan for the rigors of first faculty positions
- Understand how to build a successful research program

Academic Track
NextProf Engineering
Ann Arbor, MI
May 20, 2025
Michigan Engineering PhD & Postdoctoral Researchers interested in careers in academia
Industry & Government
NextInnovator Engineering
Ann Arbor, MI
May 19, 2025
Michigan Engineering PhD & Postdoctoral Researchers interested in careers in industry and government
Academic Track
NextProf Pathfinder
San Diego, CA
October 5-7, 2025
1st – 2nd-year PhD Students or Master’s Students intending to apply for a PhD program
Academic Track
NextProf Nexus
Berkeley, CA
September 8-11, 2025
4th+ year PhD Students, Recent Doctoral Graduates interested in careers in academia
Why NextProf?

“NextProf prepared me well in advance for what an academic job was. How you find an academic job. Who are the people that I need to be talking to. How does this all work.”
– Jeremy Brown, Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Johns Hopkins
See where other NextProf alumni have landed.

“I really don’t think I would have felt like I had the tools without attending NextProf Nexus.”
– Sabine Loos, Assistant Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Michigan
Past speakers include inspiring leaders from across the U.S.

Questions?
Contact Jennifer Downey, NextProf Program Manager, [email protected]