SUPERVISION CONCEPT

Each student is tutored by a scientific advisor, i.e., a principal investigator of the SFB. In the group of her/his scientific advisor, the student is assigned to a senior postdoc involved in laboratory training of the respective student. The student will meet with the principal investigator and the assigned senior postdoc at least once every three months.

At the start of the thesis work, student and advisor agree on a synopsis comprising the title, names of the supervising team, a project outline and a time schedule. This synopsis is submitted both to the SFB coordinator and to the administrative offices of the faculty in charge of issuing the degree. Students are supposed to give a project proposal or a progress report at least once a year.

The training group organizes an annual student retreat to accommodate the student reports, enhance networking among students and between students and faculty.

Moreover, mentoring as well as individual coaching is offered for all doctoral students. Each student is assigned to a mentor, i.e. a trusted senior scientist who is selected by the student her/himself. The mentor is not necessarily a member of the SFB but can be a member of one of the associated faculties of the participating universities. The mentor can advise the student with respect to career management, in personal and social issues; all mentors are in regular contact with the SFB and the training group, being invited to activities including the lecture series, graduation celebration etc. Furthermore, individual coaching sessions are offered when needed regarding issues of project management, career questions, conflict situations, personal development, stress management etc. by a professional certified coach in a highly confidential setting.

Asides from the strong scientific training, students have the opportunity to participate in an implemented line of transrerable skills workshops on leadership skills, time and goal management, conflict management, career planning, stress management, and soon communication skills.