The Visible Scientists: Professional Identity Development and Science
The Visible Scientists peer mentoring group is mostly formed by students of the Joint Doctoral Program of Learning Sciences (JDPLS) between ETH Zurich and EPFL. As a relatively new program, it currently lacks an established alumni network. Being highly interdisciplinary in nature, students often struggle to define their professional identities, refine specific skill sets, or identify their target audiences within such a broad field. We believe that engaging with both peers and invited professionals is essential to face these struggles.
Last but not least, JDPLS students, as mentioned, belong to different chairs, departments, and even institutions: the experience can feel isolating, and regular interaction is difficult to maintain. We believe that creating a dedicated space for discussion, idea exchange, and collective growth is essential to support the PhD experience to build a stronger sense of identity within the community.
Contact: Adrienn Toth, Martina Vincoli and Laura Bock
Holistic Career Development in Academia
Our peer mentoring group supports early-career researchers at WSL in shaping their academic careers strategically and with confidence. The focus areas were developed closely together with our peer mentoring group members and reflect the challenges and skills they consider most relevant for their career development.
Our program combines regular peer exchange, mentoring by experienced scientists, and practice-oriented workshops. This year, workshops will focus on grant writing and funding strategies, strategic career positioning, conflict management, constructive communication, and navigating structural biases in academia. In addition, mentor sessions and informal peer meetings provide space to discuss career decisions, share experiences, and strengthen networks across disciplines.
Contact: Christin Müller and Franziska Richter
Navigating Life Science industrial jobs in the AI era
Contact: Trang Dan, Charlyne Bürki and Annalena Erlacher
Leaders of the Future: Bridging Academia and Industry
Contact: Katerina Urbancova, Kamila Hamulka and Giorgia Fiorini
Developing a fulfilling career - late stage career development
Contact: Maja Schon and Valery Visser
Developing a fulfilling career - early stage career development
Contact: Sivathmika Bhaskara-Sarma, Ziyi Liu and Darya Baranouskaya