In this section you will find comprehensive information, resources, and support options to effectively organize your doctoral studies and related transitions. Please note that these aspects vary depending on the subject area and do not encompass all elements of the PhD/doctoral phase.

Checklist for PhD/Doctoral Candidates

Clarify your research topic and its significance to your field and the scientific community. Define clear research objectives and find a suitable supervisor early to support your project.

Establish clear career goals and decide whether to pursue an academic or non-academic path. Build networks within your specialized community, connect with colleagues, and explore potential collaborations. Take advantage of additional training, courses, or workshops to gain skills relevant to both your PhD/doctorate and your professional future.

 

After completing the administrative preparations, start the research work. Clearly outline your research, establish milestones and timelines, and determine the methods. Conduct a thorough literature review to grasp the current state of knowledge and organize your sources systematically. Create a realistic timeline, monitor your progress regularly, and adjust it as necessary. Document your research findings carefully and maintain consistent communication with your supervisor to receive feedback.

Carefully structure your dissertation by creating a clear outline and providing detailed chapter overviews, and work on it consistently to facilitate the writing process. Prepare thoroughly for your dissertation defense, ensuring that all administrative requirements for completing your PhD/doctorate are met punctually.

Publish your research results in specialized journals and present them at conferences to gain feedback from experts and enhance the visibility of your work. Moreover, capitalize on opportunities to acquire teaching experience by accepting teaching responsibilitites and developing your didactic skills through feedback from students and instructors.

Sources:
Scholz, A-L., Ahn, J-Y., Müller, L. (2023). Guide to the award of a doctoral degree. The path to a doctorate: From finding a topic to the defence. Time Campus.
Universitätsverband zur Qualifizierung des wissenschaftlichen Nachwuchses in Deutschland e. V. (UniWiND) (2017). Progression model for the award of a doctoral degree in Germany. www. unikon.uniwind.org/promovierendenerfassung/verlaufsmodell-promotion

 

What advice do you have for junior researchers who are facing significant career decisions?

1 / 4
"Trusting that things can develop for the better, even if it doesn't always seem that way. Know that everything in science usually takes longer than you originally thought. Persevere despite setbacks (rejected articles, applications, etc.) and keep going.”


Prof Dr Iris-Tatjana Kolassa
2 / 4
“If a career and academic work is important, you have to keep at it, keep looking at which steps will take you forward, and have the self-confidence to bear the uncertainty as calmly as possible.”


Prof Dr Birte Glimm
3 / 4
“Listen to yourself and follow your passion and enthusiasm! Things often turn out differently than expected - but often even better than you imagined and imagined!”


Prof Dr Mathias Klier
4 / 4
“Always follow your interest and desire to work. If it's not fun in the long term, it's not effective.”


Prof Dr Maurits Ortmanns

Get an Overview of a Possible Doctoral Program

Please note that this presentation provides a general overview and may not include specific details that are dependent on each department. The duration and intensity of your doctorate can varry depending on the department and may involve different milestones.