Summer Academy 2025: Networking and research for young scientists!

Summer Academy 2025: Networking and research for young scientists!

On August 1, 2025, the 12th Summer Academy took place at the Heidelberg University of Education, which has established itself as an enriching platform for young scientists. Around 57 participants from six universities of teacher education and other universities in Germany took part in the two-day event, which took place in the university's historic old building. This year, PH Heidelberg is celebrating its 120th anniversary, which gives the special occasion additional significance.

The program included various components intended to promote the professional and personal development of the participants. A central element was the technical expertise, which was imparted by renowned speakers. The participants were given the opportunity to deepen their methodological knowledge and acquire essential key qualifications in a wide range of workshops. This multifaceted program included, for example, workshops on research methods and time management that were tailored to the specific needs of scientists.

Diverse workshops for scientists

The workshops on the topic of research methods addressed, among other things, the question "Descriptive, explanatory, explorative, predictive? From the research question to study design and statistical analysis", led by Prof. Dr. Samuel Merk. In addition, participants were able to learn to combine and integrate research methods. Workshops such as “Bold, passionate and mindful: Time and self-management for scientists” and “AI and competent authorship in scientific writing” were offered as key qualifications. A particularly insightful course led by Dr. Jutta Wergen, prepared the participants for the final phases of their doctorate with the title “Welcome to the home stretch: Well prepared for the final phase and disputation”.

In addition to the specialist content, special event breaks enabled participants to exchange ideas and network. As part of the program, a “get together” by the PH Heidelberg doctoral students' convention took place on the evening of the first day of the workshop, followed by a joint dinner in a restaurant in Heidelberg.

Language workshop and other offers

Another notable offering from the University of Education is the online language workshop “English for Academic Purposes”, which is offered by the Educational Science Graduate Academy (BiwAk). This workshop, which is part of the MenTa mentoring program, promotes language skills at B2/C1 level and is particularly aimed at doctoral students and postdocs. Led by Robert Burrows, an experienced lecturer who studied at the University of Nottingham and University of Leicester, the course comprises eight sessions, taking place on Mondays from 6pm to 7.30pm.

Overall, the university's offerings aim to strengthen the scientific skills and professional development of (young) scientists. These measures correspond to the goals of the Graduate School, which not only offers workshops on research methods, but also mentoring and coaching programs to support the participants' individual career development. Financial grants are also provided for conferences and doctoral projects. Such initiatives are an important part of university development and are supported by the federal-state program to promote young scientists.

The Heidelberg University of Education therefore remains a central player in the academic continuing education and professional development of scientists in Germany, which is impressively underlined by its diverse offerings. With a clear focus on strengthening research, teaching and self-administration, the university has made it its mission to accompany talented academics on their path.