GrACe | Graduate Centre

Doctoral Researcher’s Day 2025 - A Day for Networking, Orientation, and Exchange

On June 26, 2025, the first Doctoral Researchers' Day took place at Bielefeld University – organized by GrACe | Graduate Centre. The positive feedback from participants made it clear: the event was perceived as an inspiring and valuable opportunity for information, personal orientation, and interdisciplinary exchange.

The event targeted both prospective doctoral candidates and current doctoral researchers at various stages of their academic journey – and the concept proved successful. During the opening remarks by Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Dario Anselmetti, the great interest in this new format was immediately apparent. An initial informal networking session set the tone, enabling participants to connect across faculty boundaries and laying the groundwork for a dynamic and informative day.

Parallel Info Sessions with Diverse Topics
A series of info sessions offered a wide range of content tailored to the needs and interests of the participants.
In the morning, the session “A PhD – the right thing for me?” provided an overview of the framework for doctoral studies at Bielefeld University, focusing on first steps, decision-making support, and possible entry paths.
The session “PhD Life in Balance” presented key findings on the mental health of doctoral researchers based on Bielefeld University’s survey data. Participants discussed common stress factors during the doctoral process and explored preventive strategies.
The third morning session, “Career Paths at the University: What’s in that Black Box?”, offered in-depth insights into academic career trajectories.
In the afternoon, three additional parallel sessions addressed practical questions related to the doctoral journey and future career planning.
The session “How to Finance Your PhD” gave a comprehensive overview of funding options.
“Skills for the Non-Academic Job Market” highlighted essential competencies developed during the doctoral phase and how to leverage them for careers beyond academia.
In “Teaching Hacks & Habits,” participants explored the challenges of teaching responsibilities during the doctorate. The session provided hands-on didactic strategies to help balance research, teaching, and other academic roles effectively.

Info Fair & Lunch Break
A highlight of the day was the Info Fair held at midday in the Student Services Center. Various doctoral programmes and science-supporting services presented their offerings, providing ample opportunities for informal exchange and one-on-one consultations – all accompanied by a light lunch in a relaxed setting.

Panel Discussion with the Rector to Conclude the Day
The event concluded with a panel discussion titled “Pathways in Academia,” where researchers shared personal career stories in conversation with Rector Prof. Dr. Angelika Epple, offering authentic insights into academic life and professional development.

Positive Feedback – and Concrete Ideas for 2026
The strong participation and overwhelmingly positive feedback encourage us to continue and further develop the format next year. Building on this year’s success, we aim to integrate new topics and once again create a day that opens up diverse spaces for connection, information, and personal growth.
 

Thank you to all who joined and supported us - see you again in 2026!