Onboarding Webinar Series

In this series of webinars, we will focus on a variety of topics that will be relevant throughout your dissertation or research career. From project management and informal knowledge of the academic world to publication strategies and time spent abroad, we want to give you the knowledge, skills, and support you need to start your doctoral studies and academic career confidently and independently. We invite experts to discuss various topics and answer your questions.

The webinar series is a cooperation of the Doctoral School of Historical and Cultural Studies and the Vienna Doctoral School of Theology and Research on Religion.

Please register for one or more webinar(s) in a timely manner by sending an email to dshcs.hkw@univie.ac.at

Building an effective & positive relationship with your supervisor: What you can expect and how you can contribute

Numerous studies provide compelling evidence highlighting the pivotal role of effective supervision in shaping the overall experience, progress, and ultimate outcome of a PhD journey. Navigating the challenges inherent in pursuing a doctoral degree becomes considerably more manageable and satisfying when you have one or more good supervisors on your side. This is not to insinuate that you are not able to complete the program without robust supervision. However, there is a substantial disparity between merely reaching the finish line and submitting an outstanding doctoral thesis that has been enriched by a profound learning experience. Everyone can benefit from working with a dedicated and inspiring supervisor.

 
Learning outcome

The aim of the webinar is to provide you with an idea of the essential aspects of doctoral supervision and encourage you to take an active part in the relationship with your supervisor(s). It should help you to

  • reflect on your supervisory situation,
  • understand your supervisor(s),
  • start a respectful communication with your supervisor(s) about mutual expectations,
  • learn how your own writing process affects the process of supervision.
When

Monday, 16 October 2023, 12:00pm - 1:30pm, online

With

Martina Steer


Self-organization: Why and how much should I plan my PhD and how do I make the best out of it (without getting overwhelmed by expectations & tasks)

The complexity of the tasks involved in writing a dissertation requires a professional and goal-oriented approach. Pursuing a PhD can be a daunting journey and successful self-organization is crucial to achieving research goals and meeting deadlines, while maintaining a healthy and sustainable work-life balance. This workshop aims to equip participants with the knowledge and some strategies needed to navigate the complex and multifaceted nature of doctoral research. Improving self-organization is about considering tools, comparing actual and »best« practices and deciding about individual priorites. This webinar is useful for doctoral candidates at the beginning of their dissertation, as well as for those who are well advanced in their dissertation. It helps to better understand the requirements of a dissertation and to derive, plan and control the scope of work in the light of one’s resources. 

When 

Monday, 13 November 2023, 12:00pm-1:30pm

With

Lea Pelosi


Bourdieu for PhDs: How to become an academic

Starting out as a doctoral student is not easy, especially if you are the first in your family to do so. First-generation researchers often face unique challenges and uncertainties along their academic journey. It is therefore not surprising that, compared to their peers from academic backgrounds, they are severely underrepresented at universities, as numerous studies have shown. Of course, this is not due to a lack of ability, but rather to the lack of resources, information and role models to encourage them to pursue a doctorate. In this webinar we want to give you an insight into the academic world, including the expectations, structures and cultures of higher education and doctoral program. We will address potential challenges and talk about the importance of building supportive relationships with advisors, mentors, peers and other academic professionals who can help you succe

When

Monday, 27 November 2023, 12:00pm-1:30pm

With

Verein Arbeiterkind (angefragt)


Diversity/inclusion: Personal contact & research agenda

How to succeed in academia, a field in which women and minorities rarely make it to the top positions? What challenges do you face as a woman, as a person of color or as someone who is experiencing discrimination based on other identity markers? This session focuses on sharing experiences and best practices for navigating academic life from a marginalized position. We discuss topics, such as gender discrimination and white privilege and share strategies of overcoming impostor syndrome and building a support network. We explore the impact of (in)equality in academia on research, teaching and university structures, and discuss how we can develop research agendas that promote diversity and inclusion.

When

Monday, 11 December 2023, 12:00pm-1:30pm

With

Katharina Limacher


Publication strategies: Why is it important and how do I develop one

In academia, the number and quality of publications often play a significant role in career advancement. Researchers who publish regularly in reputable journals are more likely to secure funding, promotions, tenure and other career opportunities. But even apart from good and strategic career planning, it is important for researchers to develop a publication strategy: many funding agencies require researchers to have a publication plan as part of their grant proposals. In addition, a publication strategy - including open access publications - ensures that research results are disseminated to the scientific community and society at large helping to increase a researcher's visibility within the scientific community and beyond. The webinar will provide an overview of the different types of scientific publications and explain key criteria and standards for quality and accessibility of publications. In addition, the webinar will present publication funding opportunities at the University of Vienna and in Austria.

When

Monday, 8 January 2024, 12.00pm-1:30pm

With

Giulia Rossetto


Science/research communication: Let others know what your research is about (in an understandable way)

Science or research communication is the art of conveying scientific information to diverse audiences in an engaging, clear, and accessible manner. It encompasses a spectrum of activities such as writing for the public, creating compelling visuals, giving captivating presentations, and engaging with various media platforms. The goal is to bridge the gap between the scientific community and the public, making complex ideas understandable and relevant to non-experts. This webinar aims to delve into the essence of science communication, why it holds paramount importance, and what crucial skills you should acquire to become an effective science communicator.

When

Monday, 15 January 2024, 12:00pm-1:30pm

With

Lynn Chiu, Thiemo Kronlechner, Kathrin Schönfelder (Corporate Communications @univienna)


Going abroad/mobility: Relevance, opportunities, funding

There are many reasons, to go abroad during your PhD journey: Academic enrichment, cultural immersion, networking opportunities, enhanced career opportunities, personal growth etc. This webinar will shed light on the impact of mobility on your career, explain how you find the perfect hosting institutions and explore the range of programs and funding available for doctoral candidates at the University of Vienna and beyond. Moreover, we will inform to what you should pay attention when applying for funding and when going abroad.

When

Monday, 22 January 2024, 12:00pm-1:30pm

With

Franz-Stephan Michalke (International Office)