Short Outline

This online workshop supports postdoctoral researchers in developing key skills needed to lead and contribute to collaborative research projects. Participants will explore communication strategies, conflict resolution, and team leadership in both formal and informal settings. The training also covers effective facilitation of online and in-person meetings, negotiation of diverse interests, and the role of academic networks in successful collaboration. In a networked research environment, strong communication and leadership skills are essential - whether you are officially leading a project or coordinating informally. The workshop aims to provide postdoctoral researchers with tools and strategies needed to manage research collaborations effectively and with confidence. Through hands-on exercises, case studies, and peer exchange, participants will develop a personal toolkit of methods to enhance their involvement in collaborative research projects.

Participants will learn to:

• Apply communication strategies that foster clear, constructive, and inclusive dialogue in diverse teams,
• Use conflict management techniques to identify and resolve tensions in a solution-oriented way,
• Understand and practice team leadership, even without a formal leadership title,
• Facilitate effective meetings, both online and in person,
• Employ negotiation methods to balance different interests and goals within a project,
• Build and maintain academic networks as a foundation for successful collaboration.

Target group:

The workshop is mainly aimed at postdoctoral researchers. In case of any vacant places, it is open to anyone interested.

Date & Time:
Friday, October 31, 2025 and November 21, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (s.t.)

Place: Online via Zoom
 

Registration:
To register, please send an email to weiterbildung(at)lifbi.de by October 17, 2025. Registration is mandatory. The number of participants is limited to 15.

About the Trainer:

Dr. Sabrina Sontheimer studied Literature, Linguistics and Theater at the LMU in Munich. She has a PhD in English Literature and she worked as scientific fellow and lecturer at the Chair for English Philology in LMU, with a 10-year experience in university teaching. She is a certified trainer in communications, in university teaching with a specialization on virtual teaching, and in academic writing.

This workshop is offered in cooporation with the LIfBi & BAGSS.

Short outline:

The PhD journey requires specific time and self-management skills that differ from MA studies or previous work experience. This workshop addresses key questions: How do I effectively plan a multi-year research project? How can I balance daily tasks with long-term goals? How do I build a relationship with my supervisors that supports my progress? Through group exchange, practical exercises, and personalized input, you will develop strategies for managing your PhD as both a research project and career phase. The workshop supports you in owning your PhD journey, empowering you to make informed decisions about your research path and professional development.

• PhD as Career Phase: Reflection on the doctoral journey, goal setting, and work habit assessment
• Large-Scale Project Planning: Methods for structuring multi-year research projects, with application to participants' own PhD plans
• Time Management Strategies: Daily and weekly task management techniques, priority setting, and adaptive planning
• Supervisor Relationships: Exploring advisor-advisee dynamics and strategies for productive collaboration
• Peer Coaching & Networking: Introduction to peer coaching methods and (potential) formation of ongoing peer support groups

Learning objectives:

You will be able to create realistic, adaptive plans for your PhD project timeline and daily/weekly task management. You will develop strategies for effective communication with your supervisors, including setting clear expectations and goals. You will acquire peer coaching skills and establish ongoing support networks with fellow doctoral candidates. Finally, you will gain tools for regular self-reflection and plan adaptation.

Method:

The workshop employs an interactive, participant-centred approach combining brief theoretical input with practical application. Methods include guided self-reflection exercises, small group discussions, peer coaching techniques, and hands-on planning activities. We will discuss and test appropriate use of AI. The format allows participants to immediately apply concepts to your own PhD project while benefiting from peer exchange and instructor feedback.

Time:

24.11.2025 9:30-17:30 & 25.11.2025 12:30-16:00 (12AE)

Place:

Leibniz-Institut für Bildungsverl?ufe, Wilhelmsplatz 3, room 02.20

Registration:

Please register, via this form by November 11, 2025. Registration is mandatory. The number of participants is limited to 12.

Trainer:

Dr. Christiane Kasack works as a coach and workshop facilitator. As a certified business coach and career counsellor, she supports personal development in time- and self-management as well as career planning. After a PhD in the social sciences and two years of post-doc work, Christiane managed the Hertie School’s PhD programmes and later career development pro-grammes for postdocs at the Head Office of the Helmholtz Association.