The Power of Networks, Relationship Building, and Research Pitches
cls imprs-is 27 November 2026 - 27 November 2026 Workshop
Learn how to build authentic professional networks and communicate your research with clarity and confidence to support your career and mental wellbeing.
Date: Friday, November 27, 2026
Time: 10:00 – 15:00 CET
Location: MPI-IS Stuttgart
Trainer: Dr. Tijana Perovic
Success in academia is often framed as a result of merit alone, yet professional relationships, visibility, and communication skills play a crucial role in shaping opportunities and career development. This interactive workshop invites PhD researchers to critically reflect on the myth of academic meritocracy and to explore how intentional, values-aligned networking can support both professional growth and mental wellbeing.
Participants will learn practical and authentic networking strategies that go beyond transactional interactions, with a focus on building meaningful, mutually supportive professional relationships. The workshop will also include hands-on exercises to help participants develop and practice persuasive research pitches, enabling them to communicate their work clearly and confidently in a variety of academic and professional contexts.
In addition, the session will guide participants in creating individualized, actionable plans for developing and sustaining networks that foster resilience, reduce isolation, and strengthen their sense of belonging within the research community.
The workshop will include interactive discussions, practical exercises, and opportunities for reflection and peer exchange in a supportive environment.
The session will be led by Dr. Tijana Perovic, an experienced trainer in academic mental health, communication, and researcher development.
Who can join?
This onsite workshop is open to all members of the Cyber Valley ecosystem; however, places are limited. The primary target audience for this session is doctoral researchers and postdocs. Other workshops in the series are designed more broadly for the wider community, including faculty, postdocs, scientific staff, and administrative personnel. Registration information and participation details will be shared via the community mailing lists.
Questions?
Reach out to Sara at sara.sorce@tuebingen.mpg.de
To Register for this workshop, please sign up below. Please note that by registering for this workshop, you express your interest to participate. In the event that a workshop’s interest exceeds attendance capacity, registrations will undergo a review process considering multiple aspects such as motivation, interest, and fit.