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Introducing Wenyu

Wenyu (she/her) completed her bachelor’s degree in computer science and technology at Zhengzhou University in 2014, followed by a master’s degree in biophysics at Beijing Jiaotong University in 2017, and a PhD in chemistry in 2024. 

Wenyu is now a postdoctoral scholar in the Department of Chemistry where she works in À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ Advanced Technology Laboratory (WATLab) researching nanogap device fabrication.

"As disciplines become more interdisciplinary, my knowledge is expanding, allowing me to connect previous knowledge to my current research. Every step counts."

Finding postdoc funding

Wenyu found funding for her postdoc through her PhD supervisor. Because she wanted to continue to explore different research in the same lab, she approached her supervisor to inquire about the possibility of funding and read other publications that were coming out of the lab to prepare. In addition to funding through her supervisor, Wenyu spent time asking about potential scholarship and funding opportunities through colleagues and reviewing relevant information online.  

One challenge Wenyu faced initially was funding limitations on international scholars. Once she gains permanent residence status, Wenyu hopes to apply for additional opportunities through the Natural Sciences & Engineering Research Council (NSERC). 

Wenyu says her best advice for finding funding is to “start early, prepare thoroughly, and never assume one door is the only door […] Make sure you write a strong CV that summarizes your research experiences."

Related resources

• Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs has a designated section on the postdoctoral scholars website for postdocs to find funding. 

• The Centre for Career Development has workshops, online content, and one-on-one appointments designed to building strong CVs, resumes, and cover letters.  

• The Writing and Communication Centre can work with you to develop your scholarly voice and to build strategies for tackling research papers, cover letters, and more. 

• Legal and Immigration Services is available to all postdocs who may be navigating work permits, residency applications, and more.