F³G consortium

E-Learning and Individual Counseling: How to become a professor! Planning and optimizing your academic career, English and German

Available from 15 January until 30 October 2026

Target audience

• Female researchers
• Researchers with international background and/or from other underrepresented groups

Career level

Doctoral candidates, advanced phase, and PostDocs (approx. year 1 to 4)

Why does it matter?

A successful academic career requires thorough planning.

Contents and impact

Combining an asynchronous approach with individual counselling, this e-learning is tailored to situations and needs of researchers. After working on the webcast and workbook, participants will organize their individual counselling session with the trainer to discuss their personal questions and solutions.

The video discusses questions such as:

• What long-term career options does the German »Job Market Academia« offer for researchers and what are the actual chances?
• What requirements and criteria should be met for this career path?
• When are which tasks particularly important and what has the highest priority?
• How important is the habilitation?
• What time frame is appropriate?

The video informs you about the central requirements (also beyond publications and funding) and milestones for an academic career in the German system. It provides specific tips and advice on how to prioritize these requirements and on strategic considerations during the postdoc phase on the path to a professorship. Building on this, the video and the accompanying workbook offer the opportunity to take stock and reflect on your own academic profile and ideally derive the next important steps from this.

Individual consultation

Please allow at least 8–10 weeks in advance when planning for your appointment.

You can shape the individual session entirely according to your own needs e.g. to receive feedback on your profile or CV, discuss your next career steps strategically, or address further individual questions. It is recommended that, when scheduling your appointment, you briefly outline what you would like to use the individual session for, and in case any preparations are necessary to send materials (such as your CV) in advance. The contents of the individual consultations are, of course, treated confidentially.

Trainer

Dieta Kuchenbrandt holds a diploma in Psychology. As a coach and trainer she offers seminars throughout Germany, Austria and Switzerland for universities, graduate schools, mentoring programs, non-university research institutions and other institutions. She also works with scientists in individual consultations and coachings.

More information on Dieta Kuchenbrand on her website

Target audience

• Female researchers
• Researchers with international background and/or from other underrepresented groups

Career level: Doctoral candidates and PostDocs

Why does it matter?

Structure and logical argumentation are basic requirements for successful presentations. This workshop focuses on structured preparation and is complementary to a later workshop dedicated to on site delivery. (Presentation II: Make yourself heard, 13 May)

Contents and impact

This course is designed to equip early-career researchers with the skills needed to effectively present their research in any format, and to respond confidently to critical questions. The course contents are applied directly to each participant’s own research topic, and participants get the chance to practice presentations about their research during the course.

Topics:

• The Opening: How to Start a Presentation
• How to Structure a Scientific Presentation
• Basics of Logic: Building a Valid and Sound Argument
• How to Respond to Difficult Questions and Objections
• Presentations from Participants

After the training, participants will

• have a draft for an introduction to their research, explaining main research questions and their relevance
• have an argument structure supporting a key message they want to communicate
• know the most important factors that determine the quality of a presentation
• know strategies to respond to different types of critical questions

Trainer

Dr. Malte Engel, Institut für Argumentationskompetenz (Website)

Dr. Malte Engel has completed his doctorate at the Chair of Ethics at the Humboldt University of Berlin.
He is a certified trainer (German Association of Certified Trainers and Business Coaches (BZTB)

When and where

Online workshop, 2 sessions, via Zoom
February 5^th and 6^th 2026 (Thursday and Friday)
from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Target audience

• Female researchers
• Researchers with international background and/or from other underrepresented groups

Career level: Doctoral candidates and PostDocs

Why does it matter?

AI-based assistants enable researchers to work more effectively and with more quality. However, it is important for researchers to use these tools judiciously and with an understanding of their limitations and considering the policies of the funding agencies.

Contents and impact

This course familiarizes participants with AI assistants for their grant writing. A focus will be on practical use, thus participants should bring their research ideas or topics for grant applications. They will be provided with a pre-workshop workup and material.

Topics

• AI Assistants and Context Engineering
• Objective Literature Research and Strategizing Projects
• Brainstorming Project Ideas, Message, Storyline
• Scientific Texting and Communication
• Data Analysis and Visualization
• Project Management using AI
• External perspective on interpersonal interaction
• Perspective: what will happen in the near future?

After the training, participants will

• be familiar with and able to apply the concepts and AI assistants to their own scientific research and proposal writing
• dispose of the PM armamentarium required for successful grant writing.

Trainer

Prof. Dr. Daniel Mertens, Schiller & Mertens (Website)

Prof. Dr. Daniel Mertens is Biochemist, Lecturer and leader of his own research groups at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and at the University of Ulm. For several years he also shares his knowledge and experiences as professional trainer.

When and where

Online workshop, 4 sessions, via Zoom

March 12^th, 13^th, 16^th, and 19^th 2026 (Thursday, Friday, Monday, Thursday)
from 9 to 12

Target audience

• Researchers with international background and/or from other underrepresented groups

Career level: Doctoral candidates and PostDocs

Why does it matter?

Researchers from underrepresented groups may be impacted by a lack of awareness with regards to
diversity within their research environment. Tools and strategies are of utmost importance for them to ensure their wellbeing and performance as a researcher.

Contents and impact

This workshop looks into diversity from the perspective of persons concerned and develops strategies to deal with and influence research environments. During the two step process, participants are invited to analyse situations and apply approaches.  

Topics

• Diversity and its dimensions in the research context
• Practical strategies for navigating these hurdles in the context of research teams
• Expert insights on resilience and success in research

Activities

• “Mapping the Academic Landscape”: Collaborative identification of challenges
• “Strategy Exchange”: Peer-to-peer sharing of success tactics
• “Creating Your Academic Support Web”: Building a strong professional network

After the training, participants will

• understand concepts of diversity and how they influence their personal situation
• have at hand tools and tactics to deal with situations and influence their environment

Trainer

Juliane Handschuh holds a PhD in neurobiology and has more than 10 years of research experience in the fields of molecular neuroscience and immunology. She uses this experience to support scientists in the context of human resource development as a freelance trainer for soft skills.

Juliane Handschuh website

When and where

Online workshop, 2 sessions, via Zoom

April 17^th and 24^th 2026 (Friday)
from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Target audience

• Female researchers
• Researchers with international background and/or from other underrepresented groups

Career level: Doctoral candidates and PostDocs

Why does it matter?

Coaching is a helpful tool for personal career development. To use it effectively, it is important to understand options, impacts and requirements for an successful coaching process.

Contents and impact

This lunch talk provides an introduction to coaching as an effective instrument for professional and career development within academia. The session offers orientation on the opportunities associated with coaching and highlights its potential benefits for researchers at various career stages. This event will clarify the scope and purpose of coaching, offering participants practical insights into when and how this method may be of particular value for their professional development.

Topics:

• What is coaching?
• The coaching process: from needs assessment to goal setting
• Identification of needs and challenges in academic career paths where coaching is an effective method
• Roles and responsibilities of both coach and coachee
• The framework of confidentiality in the coaching relationship

Objectives

• Provide an overview of how coaching can address specific needs in careerdevelopment
• Sensitize participants to the potential benefits of engaging in coaching
• Encourage the active use of coaching as a means of professional support

Trainer

Simone Freitag is an independent trainer and coach for personal and career development.  A psychologist, she has completed a training in Systemic Organizational Consulting.

To Simone Freitag’s website

When and where

Online workshop, via Zoom
April 30^th 2026 (Thursday)
from 12 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Target audience

• Female researchers
• Researchers with international background and/or from other underrepresented groups

Career level: Doctoral candidates and PostDocs

Why does it matter?

Even with well structured argumentation prepared, researchers need to ensure a convincing presentation on the spot to convey trustworthiness, competence, and authenticity and to convince their audience. This workshop ties in with Presentation I: Argumentation in Scientific Presentations, 5 and 6 Feb) and focuses on non verbal communication and speech delivery.

Contents and impact

This one-day workshop is designed to reach the aims through meaningful practice, individual and group activities, theater exercises, and other exercises informed by Amy Cuddy’s work on presence. In order to apply the principles all participants are required to have a 2 minute self-presentation (similar to an elevator pitch) or a short 1-2 minute self-introduction prepared and ready to use.

Topics:

• Non-verbal communication
• Voice and Speech (Verbal Delivery)
• Presence and Power
• Message and Relationship to the audience
• Stage fright and Techniques to overcome it

After the training, participants will

• build an awareness of their presentation style and presence.
• be able to identify their strengths as a speaker and to leverage them.
• know what makes effective, powerful communication and develop the skills to model it
• have tools to help them overcome obstacles when presenting such as stage fright
• become familiar with the principles of creating a powerful presence
• have at hand the tools to increase their presence while presenting.

Trainer

Francesca Carlin is an American communication trainer and personal coach. For over a decade, she has helped professionals improve their public speaking, develop their presence, and apply the practice of mindful communication. A trained actress she has found that using acting techniques and exercises helps people to overcome personal barriers and to become more effective communicators.

To Francesca Carlin’s website

When and where

In person workshop, seminar room in Erlangen
May 13^th 2026 (Wednesday)
from 09 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Target audience

• Researchers with international background and/or from other underrepresented groups

Career level: Doctoral candidates and PostDocs

Why does it matter?

International researchers are well established at German universities. However, cultural differences can repeatedly lead to misunderstandings that complicate daily work and collaboration. To settle in well, and work successfully, you need a genuine understanding of cultural specifics in German academia.

Contents and impact

This workshop focuses on the most important challenges international researchers have to deal with. Activities include practical exercises and case studies. The workshop supports building networks with international peers.

Topics:

• German rules, punctuality, and time management
• Direct communication and feedback
• Hierarchical structures and decision-making
• Individualism vs group orientation
• Task-oriented collaboration (e.g., in project groups)
• Separation of work and private life

Objectives

• A deep understanding of everyday university life in Germany and the underlying cultural values
• Understanding the cultural mindset in Germany
• Practical best practices for successful interaction with colleagues, supervisors, and administration
• Practicing interculturally competent behavior
• Exchanging experiences and networking with international peers

Trainer

Iris Wangermann is an Intercultural psychologist (Diplom-Psychologe) and an interactive workshop facilitator in the field of diversity and intercultural competence, working at universities since 2003.

To Iris Wangermann’s website

When and where

In person workshop, seminar room in Erlangen
June 10^th 2026 (Thursday)
from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Target audience

• Female researchers
• Researchers with international background and/or from other underrepresented groups
• PIs and Team leaders as well as researchers preparing for leadership positions

Career level: all

Why does it matter?

Research projects are complex and time-sensitive – misunderstandings cost time, cause stress, and compromise quality. Teams with high intercultural competence are not only more harmonious but also more innovative and efficient with direct impact on project success and publication quality.

Contents and impact

This workshop focuses on the most important challenges that frequently arise in international research teams. Activities include practical exercises and case studies.

Topics:

• Different communication and feedback styles
• Different expectations regarding roles, tasks, and responsibilities
• Handling hierarchies and decision-making processes
• Differences in work logic, priorities, and perceptions of time
• Typical misunderstandings in digital or hybrid work environments
• Cultural differences in conflict resolution and team dynamics

During the training, participants will

• develop a clear understanding of cultural differences in communication, roles, and expectations
• get to know strategies for trusting and productive collaboration
• practice direct vs. indirect communication
• recognize how cultural values ​​influence decisions and conflict styles
• reflect on their own patterns and strengthen their intercultural competence

Trainer

Iris Wangermann is an Intercultural psychologist (Diplom-Psychologe), interactive workshop facilitator in the field of diversity and intercultural competence, working at universities since 2003.

To Iris Wangermann’s website

When and where

In person workshop, seminar room in Erlangen
June 11^th 2026 (Wednesday)
from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Target audience

• Female researchers
• Researchers with international background and/or from other underrepresented groups

Career level: Doctoral candidates and PostDocs

Why does it matter?

Ph.D. candidats and Postdocs need to advance their research while also managing many other tasks, like teaching, supervising, or doing admin work. Project management skills and competencies in time management are indispensable for productive progress.

Topics:

• Project management
• Goal setting
• Milestone planning & progress monitoring
• Agile planning
• Time management
• Saying no and defending boundaries
• Routines for highly focused work
• Pragmatism & perfectionism

During the training, participants will

• learn key project planning techniques and apply them to their research project
• understand how to stick to priorities in the face of conflicting demands
• how to set up routines for highly focused work
• and how to become less perfectionist and more pragmatic.

When and where

Online workshop, 2 sessions, via Zoom
July 8^th and 9^th 2026 (Wednesday and Thursday)
from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Trainer

Daniel Friedrich is an expert in project and self-management within and outside academia. After working in Berlin, Oxford and at the Australian National University, he taught and conducted research as a post-doc at the interdisciplinary Berlin School of Mind and Brain. Since 2019, he has been contributing his experience as a researcher, PhD supervisor and university lecturer at Impulsplus.

To Daniel Friedrich’s website

plus one subsequent individual coaching session (90 minutes)

Target audience

• Female researchers
• Researchers with international background and/or from other underrepresented groups

Career level: Doctoral candidates and PostDocs

Why does it matter?

Confidence is a prerequisite for a successful career in research. Thus it matters to address the challenges of impostor syndrome in academia.

Topics:

Participants will explore the psychological dynamics underlying self-worth, learn practical strategies to enhance confidence, and gain awareness of how impostor feelings may impact their professional and personal lives. Personal situations and challenges can be addressed in greater depth through individual coaching sessions following participation in the workshop. The workshop combines reflective exercises, group discussions, and practical tools aimed at empowering researchers to navigate academic pressures with greater self-assurance.

Objectives:

• Understand the concept of self-worth and its importance in academic careers
• Recognize the signs and effects of impostor syndrome
• Develop strategies to build and sustain self-confidence
• Explore ways to reframe self-critical thoughts and challenge negative beliefs
• Cultivate resilience and a positive self-perception in professional contexts

When and where

Online workshop, 1 session, via Zoom

July 24^th 2026 (Friday)
from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Optional individual coaching session (one per participant à 90 minutes) via individual appointment

Trainer

Simone Freitag is an independent trainer and coach for personal and career development. A psychologist, she has completed a training in Systemic Organizational Consulting.

To Simone Freitag’s website

Target audience

• Female researchers
• Researchers with international background and/or from other underrepresented groups

Career level: Doctoral candidates and PostDocs

Why does it matter?

Understanding leadership and decision-making and developing relevant skills is an indispensable tool for researchers, even at early stages of their careers.

Topics:

• Leadership experiences and values
• Leadership and power
• Leadership styles and their impact
• Situational leadership
• Success and control factors of teams
• Facilitating decision-making processes
• Methods of decision-making (in teams)
• Systemic consensus building

After the training, participants will:

• understand concepts of leadership and decision-making
• be able to identify leadership styles adapted to situations and contexts
• be able to initiate and steer decision making processes in their teams

When and where

Online workshop, 2 sessions, via Zoom
September 24^th and October 1^st 2026 (Thursday)
from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Trainer

After studying humanities at the University of Tübingen, Dr. Isabel Werle first worked in adult education and public relations before returning to academia as a staff member in the Media and Communication field. She completed her doctorate at the TU Darmstadt and has been a self-employed trainer and coach since 2011. Her focus is on leadership, team development, communication and conflict management.

To Dr. Isabel Werle’s website

plus one subsequent individual coaching session (90 minutes)

Target audience

• Female researchers
• Researchers with international background and/or from other underrepresented groups

Career level: Doctoral candidates and PostDocs

Why does it matter?

An individual self-assessment is an important step when it comes to planning careers in research and science. Where have I come from? What milestones have I achieved? Where do I currently stand, what are my strengths, and which values are important to me?

Topics:

The workshop introduces methods for reflecting on personal competencies, strengths, and areas for development. Together, professional goals are defined and next steps are developed. The workshop offers a safe space for exchange, self-reflection, and practical methods for orientation and goal-setting in the career process. Afterwards, there is the opportunity to discuss one’s situation in greater depth through individual coaching.

Objectives:

• Reflecting on own previous professional stations and experiences
• Recognizing and naming personal strengths and development potentials
• Engaging with individual values and their influence on professional goals
• Formulating concrete goals for the further career path
• Developing initial action and a roadmap to achieve goals

When and where

Online workshop, 1 session, via Zoom

October 16^th 2026 (Friday)
from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Optional individual coaching sessions (one per participant à 90 minutes) via individual appointments

Trainer

Simone Freitag is an independent trainer and coach for personal and career development.  A psychologist, she has completed a training in Systemic Organizational Consulting.

To Simone Freitag’s website

Target audience

• PIs and Team leaders as well as researchers preparing for leadership positions

Why does it matter?

Our life and research activities are marked by prejudices and unconscious biases that influence our thoughts and actions. For (potential) team leaders, it matters to become aware of these automatisms and to mitigate their impact in the context of team leadership and recruitment.

Contents and impact

In this workshop, we will embark on a journey to become aware of unconscious biases and develop strategies for better handling them in our daily lives. We will create space for open discussions and respectful exchanges to collaboratively devise solutions. This workshop provides an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the topic of bias and to take concrete steps towards change.

During the workshop participants will

• learn about theoretical foundations on the topic
• become aware of and critically reflect on their own biases
• be provided with tools to actively work on their personal development
• be empowered to handle their biases more consciously in everyday life and make positive changes in their thinking and behavior

When and where

Online workshop, 2 sessions, via Zoom
October 8th and November 5^th 2026 (Thursday)
from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (8 Oct) and 1 p.m. to 3 a.m. (5 Nov)

Trainer

Juliane Handschuh holds a PhD in neurobiology and has more than 10 years of research experience in the fields of molecular neuroscience and immunology. She uses this experience to support scientists in the context of human resource development as a freelance trainer for soft skills.

To Juliane Handschuh’s website

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