I hope I do not post a repetitive question here. Generally, I have questions about finding a math postdoc position and the expectation/duty of general math postdoc position. But I suppose my situation is not usual.
I just recently passed my dissertation defense and I am about to deposit my dissertation to the university, completing my last degree requirements.
Throughout my phd study, I almost always find myself slow on learning math concepts, and everyone in the department seems to be better than me. My advisor is also very helpful, encourage and patience. It is almost a miracle that he can guide me through the end of my phd. My dissertation is ok. It is far from world-changing. I think it is at the level of meet the standard (like really meet standard, like if 50 is a pass, it might be about 51-55). My CV is not great (covid thing make it hard to attend seminars, give talks). So in short, my thesis topic is mediocre at best, and my cv is … poor.
I do think that I am so weak at research skill so I think postdoc might do me some good. However, it seems like postdoc in math is very competitive nowadays, and usually require good cv, many published paper etc.
Perhaps the question is… does anyone know or even has experience yourself the same situation as me? Is it possible for a mediocre math phd to get a postdoc position ? Is postdoc a way for one who think he/she yet ready to do research completely on their own, but seeks some professional to guide him/her ? Is it possible for postdoc advisor to work more closely with the postdoc than normal (if he or she seems yet proficient enough) ?