About the Program

The Building Future Faculty (BFF) program, coordinated by the NC State Office of Outreach & Engagement (OE) and the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost, prepares doctoral candidates for the transition into academic faculty careers. Through workshops, mentoring and guided discussion, participants gain a clearer understanding of what it takes to navigate the early years of a faculty career and build a foundation for long-term success in academia.

BFF is not a job placement program. It is a professional development experience designed to demystify the academic job market and faculty life, and to connect participants with the knowledge and relationships that support a strong start as junior faculty.

Who Should Apply

• Applicants must be current doctoral candidates.
• Applicants must be at least in year three of their doctoral program.
• Applicants must attend a college or university within the United States (limited to the contiguous lower 48 states).

Program Benefits

Participants gain:

• A clearer understanding of the academic job market and the faculty career path;
• Practical strategies for navigating the transition from doctoral candidate to junior faculty member;
• Guidance on what contributes to long-term success in an academic career; and
• Connections with peers, mentors, and faculty across institutions.

Application Timeline

The application window for the Spring cohort is Sept. 1 – Oct. 15, 2026.

Program dates – March 10-13, 2027

How to Apply

Questions?

Contact Melvin (Jai) Jackson, assistant vice provost for Outreach & Engagement, with any questions about eligibility or the application process.