“Improving our Professional Skills”

The CRC “Iron, upgraded!” recently hosted its summer school from 21st July, 2025 to 23rd July, 2025 in Altleiningen. This year’s event for the PhD and postdoctoral researchers was focused on the topic “career” – offering insights by professionals both in academia and industry and practical training for job interviews.

The first day’s programme started with a series of career talks given by several professionals, who have already successfully transitioned into academia or industry. These sessions provided room and opportunity for discussions about potential career paths. In the afternoon, a workshop focused on “elevator pitches” taught participants how to concisely present ideas. The evening was concluded with a barbecue. Our workshop was extended to the second day, by hands-on training dedicated to CV writing and job interviews skills. The afternoon offered a change of scenery with a drive to Bad Dürkheim where we went on a hike, visiting touristic sights. The evening was spent with a dinner at the Dürkheimer Fass.

The summer school was concluded with a visit to the BASF production site in Ludwigshafen. The tour gave the researchers a look into the company’s operations and history, providing a perfect end to the career-focused programme.

Report: Sun-Myung Kim