Researchers in dialogue: Young talent colloquium promotes interdisciplinary exchange!

Researchers in dialogue: Young talent colloquium promotes interdisciplinary exchange!

On May 22, 2025, the second junior colloquium took place at the Faculty of Natural and Social Sciences at PH Heidelberg, an important forum for young scientists that serves to promote interdisciplinary exchange. The event offered eleven doctoral students the opportunity to present their research topics in 15-minute presentations and to answer questions after each presentation. This not only created space for scientific discussions, but also for personal exchanges during a coffee break.

The dean of the faculty, Prof. Dr. Manuela Welzel-Breuer, in her introductory words, emphasized the relevance of the interdisciplinary dialogue and emphasized the diversity of the topics that were presented. These ranged from Discourses of memory during the colonial period in Germany and England to contemporary sexual education and health management at German universities. Topics such as improving students' IT skills and measuring the professionalism of educators were also covered.

Variety of topics and animal ideas

The work presented included, among other things, the professional knowledge of chemistry teachers and mixed methods research designs, including their objective and subjective facets. The tips for acquiring study participants were particularly practical, as they gave the doctoral students useful strategies for their own research. The presentations were given by Prof. Dr. Mario Dräger and his history team organized to provide a professional and supportive environment.

The event has received a positive response and will be held regularly in various specialist areas. This is intended not only to stimulate scientific exchange across disciplines, but also to promote future discussions. Doctoral student Johannes Keller, who initiated the colloquium, did so at the suggestion of the faculty board in order to create a platform for interesting and relevant research questions.

Experiences and outlook

This initiative does not only take place at PH Heidelberg. A similar format is also being pursued at the University of Duisburg-Essen, which aims to promote exchange and networking within educational research. That's how it happens IZfB a series of lectures that offers invited scientists the opportunity to present their current research. The focus here is also on the exchange beyond the lectures.

With the continuous invitation and exchange within the various work areas, a dynamic academic community is created. Given the positive response to these events, it is likely that interdisciplinary exchange will become the norm, which will ultimately have a positive impact on the diversity and quality of educational research in Germany.