From 16 to 20 March 2026, representatives from academia, doctoral support and university management within the ATHENA European University Alliance met at the University of Siegen to discuss the further development of doctoral training and cross-disciplinary skills. The focus was on comparing different approaches, exchanging best practices and working together on standards for a future-oriented doctoral programme.
Over the course of the week, a wide range of topics relating to doctoral support were addressed, including the supervision of doctoral candidates, internationalisation, diversity and inclusion, interdisciplinary collaboration, research integrity, open science, and academic writing, presenting and publishing. In addition, insights were provided into proven tools for effective doctoral supervision and successful project management. There was also a lively exchange on the arrangements for joint doctoral supervision within the framework of cotutelle procedures, on the activities of the ATHENA PhD Network, and on prospects for further collaboration at the postdoctoral level. Furthermore, visits to INCYTE and the House of Young Talents provided valuable insights.
The event highlighted just how important European cooperation is for the further development of doctoral training. The professional exchange and personal networking provided valuable impetus for supporting early-career researchers even more effectively within a strong European network.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our partners for the open discussions, the valuable ideas and the excellent cooperation. The event sent a strong signal regarding the support of the next generation of researchers in Europe.
