On April 14, 2026, we hosted From Code to Cure: Post-/doctoral Sparks in Data Science and Biomedicine in Freiburg, bringing together early-career researchers from different programs for interdisciplinary exchange and stronger intra-institutional connections throughout Freiburg. Flash PresentationsWe opened with flash presentations from program representatives who endorsed the event, each offering a clear overview of program research focus, training […]

Last week, SMART, jointly with the Equity and Diversity Office, hosted the course “How to Thrive in the German Academic Landscape” for international researchers, led by Pamela Stenzel. The session offered a structured look into the German academic system, unpacking how universities, research organizations, and funding bodies interact, and where opportunities emerge within this ecosystem. […]

SMART had the pleasure to organize a very well received skills course on the topic of strategic time management in academia on Monday, February 23rd. Our doctoral researchers appreciated Dr. Matthias Mayer’s engaging and interactive approach which made acquiring critical notions for the success of their long-term academic projects feel effortless. The workshop debuted in […]

SMART has organized a full-day training on mental health in research for our doctoral researchers on Monday, December 8th. Dr. Bergner’s approach, tailored specifically to our program, integrates scientific evidence with practical strategies to support researchers in navigating and sustaining well-being within today’s academic environment The event started enthusiastically at 9:00 and proceeded with an […]

From November 19 to 21, our doctoral researchers met at the Schwarzwald Lodge Rothaus for the second SMART Retreat. The program followed the WCCD (Write/Code/Collab/Discuss) format established last year, combining focused project sessions with structured exchange and group activities. Day 1: Opening Sessions, Ice Breaker, and External Speaker Panel After the welcome plenary, participants joined […]

In preparation for the upcoming SMART Retreat and as part of the ongoing collaboration follow-up, SMART doctoral researchers came together to present and refine their collaboration pitches, exploring connections and new directions for joint research. Combining group exercises with trainer feedback from Dr. Vincen Botella-Soler , participants reworked their pitches, exchanged constructive input and uncovered new links […]