Career Compass: Planning Your Path in Academia

A Doctorate plus^BIGS workshop offered by the Bonn Graduate Center

Academia can feel like uncharted territory - full of forks in the road, unmarked trails, and no single map that fits everyone. But finding your way is not a matter of luck. With the right orientation, a clear sense of direction, and good preparation, you can navigate this terrain with confidence - and choose a path that truly fits you.

Online Workshop

Monday, March 1, 2027
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Tuesday, March 2, 2027
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Please register your interest in this workshop by September 13, 2026.

Trainer

Dr. Jan Schmidt

Language

English

Location

Online

Target Group

Doctoral students from the Bonn International Graduate Schools (BIGS)

Track(s)

Research

Certificate

16 units are applicable within the Doctorate plus certificate

Eine Wissenschaftlerin und ein Wissenschaftler arbeiten hinter einer Glasfassade und mischen Chemikalien mit Großgeräten.

Description

This workshop is dedicated to the question: How can you find and prepare for the path that suits you? As with any journey, we will start by getting an overview of the terrain and the different routes that lead to destinations such as postdoc, junior professorship, or junior group leader - what are the differences, what are the similarities? Are there additional opportunities outside university?

But it's not only about the routes themselves. There is also the question of skills and
achievements: What do you need to navigate successfully - no matter which path you
choose? Finally, we will look at your personal profile: What are your strengths? Where do
you want to grow?

Your personal development plan (PDP) will also be part of the workshop: After exploring
the opportunities, the requirements, and your personal profile, we will work on individual
strategies and concrete next steps to set you on your course.

Content

Career paths leading to a professorship at a German university
Necessary experience and skills for an academic career
Reflection on own profile and identification of personal strengths and areas for growth
Personal development plan and next steps

Childcare

If you need childcare during the event, please contact the Family Office of the University of Bonn at least two weeks in advance.

Creditable for the Micro Credential 'Careers & Transitions'

Micro Credentials for doctoral students offer the opportunity to systematically add key future skills to your professional expertise. You can apply for a Micro Credential if you successfully complete at least four workshops from one area of expertise.

Learn more