Becoming a doctorate/postdoc is a pivotal, yet highly selective career step towards research independence and tenure. Preparing for future research leadership, the workshop helps early career researchers to assess their current position, align career aspirations with longer-term research goals and develop a road map for achieving them in the individual setting. Practice scenarios provide guidance on how to exploit funding opportunities effectively to build resources and capabilities for further career advancement.

Dr. Thomas Koch is a research management consultant and certified business trainer and coach. He provides hands-on workshops and individual guidance for researchers to realise their career objectives and research ideas. He also supports higher education institutions and research consortia in implementing strategic initiatives and preparing grant proposals. Holding a Ph.D. in physical chemistry from the UK, he builds on 10 years of international experience as a researcher and 12 years of professional experience as a research manager and senior administrator at universities in Bochum (RUB) and Munich (LMU).

By participating in the workshop, you will be better equipped to:
• take responsibility for your career and decision making,
• understand the critical success factors for a sustainable research career,
• apply strategic approaches to advance both your career and your research,
• design fundable projects for different research settings,
• identify and exploit funding opportunities,
• prepare effective grant proposals,
• develop yourself as a principal investigator.

This highly interactive workshop employs theoretical input, plenary discussions, individual and small group work, practice scenarios, experience sharing and expert advice. Pre-workshop activities account for varying levels of research experience.