This session focuses on the pressing need for positive change in the work and study environments within academia, especially for early career researchers (ECRs). Through an introductory speech and a follow-up discussion, we will explore strategies for shifting academic culture from competitive to collaborative, promoting healthier work practices, and fostering resilience in research careers.
The keynote address will highlight Eurodoc’s commitment to advocating for a sustainable research environment, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance, mental well-being, and supportive mentorship for ECRs. It will outline practical steps ECRs can take to contribute to this shift, such as promoting open, transparent research practices and prioritizing community-oriented goals in their work.
Following the speech, Participants will engage in a discussion on best practices for building resilient, healthy work environments within research institutions. Topics will include the value of adopting Open Science principles, the role of collaboration over competition, and the importance of access to training resources and preventive support services. Audience members will be encouraged to participate, sharing experiences and insights on creating positive changes in their own institutions.
Guests:
Aleksandra Lewandowska PhD Candidate in Social Sciences at the University of Białystok, Poland. Aleksandra served as Eurodoc's General Board Member and is currently a co-coordinator of Eurodoc's Mental Health Working Group. She graduated in criminology and is completing a master’s degree in psychology at SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities in Warsaw. She has also served as the Ombudsperson for Doctoral Candidates' Rights at the University of Białystok and as Board Member and International Cooperation Representative of the Polish National Association of Doctoral Candidates.
Sara Wilhammar Postdoctoral fellow in Communications Engineering at Lund University. Former President of the Student Union at Lund University and currently co-coordinator of Eurodoc's Mental Health Working Group.
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Financial Support
The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art is pleased to provide support for the 2024 VWSCC through a generous donation from Alan Fortier.
We thank Leibniz Institute for Catalysis (LIKAT) and CECAM for their support.
Virtual Winter School on Computational Chemistry