Future of science: Postdocs discuss new evaluation methods in Bremen
On May 20, 2025, an important meeting of the UniWiND network took place in Bremen to strengthen the research culture and promote young talent.

Future of science: Postdocs discuss new evaluation methods in Bremen
On May 20, 2025, an important meeting of the nationwide university association for the qualification of young scientists in Germany, known as UniWiND, took place. The event was organized by the BYRD (Bremen Early Career Researcher Development) youth center in Bremen. Over 70 members of the UniWiND postdoc support network were present to exchange ideas about current topics and challenges in the area of postdoc funding.
The event program was entitled “Research Culture” and offered a variety of lectures. Speakers from graduate centers and similar institutions in Germany contributed their perspectives and experiences. Dr. Anneke Meyer opened the lecture series with a contribution about new ways of evaluating research, while Jutta Stahl addressed the problem of abuse of power in science and presented options for action.
Workshops and exchange
A central element of the meeting was the exchange in the form of workshops and a World Café, where the focus was on improving working conditions for postdoctoral scientists. The participants discussed how the framework conditions for the postdoc phase can be further optimized. This phase is crucial for deepening research work or choosing a new research focus and plays an important role in qualifying for scientific management positions.
The acquisition of third-party funding is another important factor for the scientific success of postdocs. To support this process, a two-part video series on third-party funding is offered, in which specific programs from various institutions, including the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), are presented. Advice on these programs is also available, including help with the application and structure of the research proposal.
Perspectives and future
The event aims to not only provide postdocs with valuable information, but also to create a platform for exchange and networking. Interested postdocs are asked to fill out and return a form by email before a consultation in order to receive targeted support.
For more information about this important initiative, the UniWiND and BYRD websites can be visited. Contact information can also be found on these pages. Dr. Imke Girßmann from the BYRD Bremen is available for questions on +49 (0)421 218-60329.
Support for postdocs in their crucial career phase is essential to continually improve the quality of science in Germany. These meetings and the associated offers form an important basis for the successful development of young scientists.
For more detailed information and current news on postdoc funding and support measures, see also the University of Bremen and the University of Hamburg.