60 https://www.uni-bremen.de/en/byrd/doctoral-researchers/doc-networks en University of Bremen Wed, 19 Aug 2026 08:12:27 +0200 Wed, 19 Aug 2026 08:12:27 +0200 University of Bremen content-26710 Thu, 05 Mar 2026 16:05:11 +0100 https://www.uni-bremen.de/en/byrd/doctoral-researchers/doc-networks#c26710 <p>Doc-networks are formed on the initiative of doctoral candidates themselves. They create their own space for reciprocal peer support. Doc-Networks facilitate and enhance PhD research work by providing a source of peer counseling and advice, social inclusion and accompanying academic activities. The individual networks are dedicated to an overarching theme (topic or method) that links together the research interests and projects of its members.</p> <h4>What does a network do for me?</h4> <p>Doc-Networks have many advantages:</p> <ul> <li>Peer counseling:  Doc-Networks enable the reciprocal exchange of experience and work techniques (methods and topics). Participants benefit from such tips and have a forum in which they can discuss their research work.</li> <li>Social inclusion: You are part of a group. This presents a welcome and constructive interlude in the daily grind of doctoral research.</li> <li>Coordination, knowledge, and motivation: You can engage in (disciplinary and interdisciplinary) discourse and the various activities made available through the network serve to boost motivation.</li> <li>Accompanying academic activity: The network provides a source of interdisciplinary discourse beyond your specific field or university.</li> </ul> <h4> </h4> <h4>What are the requirements for creating a Doc-Network?</h4> <ul> <li>Descriptive title/ underlying theme: The theme covered by the network is best illustrated via a descriptive title that provides a visible platform and facilitates finding other members. The title also fixes the frame as well as the thematic and methodological thrust of the network, making it easier for others to see a common reference point to their research.</li> <li>Composition of members: Ideally, a network comprises 6 to 15 members, of whom one or two researchers act as contact- and spokespersons. Postdocs and Masters’ students may participate in the network , however, the doctoral researchers should be in the majority.</li> <li>Written concept describing the thematic and methodological frame of the network, as well as how the individual dissertation topics fit in with these overarching themes (3-4 pages).</li> <li>Brief introductory text: The network provides a brief text describing the main features that will be published on this website.</li> </ul> <h4> </h4> <h4>What makes a successful network?</h4> <ul> <li>Active networks live from their members. Commitment, motivation and personal success are important factors.</li> <li>Work in the network – learn from the network: The overarching theme or frame presents the possibility to work towards mutual aims. For example: Participation at scholarly meetings, invitations to guest lecturers or even interdisciplinary publications and projects. A cross-disciplinary and personal exchange of experiences (stumbling blocks, time sinks, good research methods, or new developments and stimuli) is also an important factor.</li> <li>Regular participation in network meeting is vital for its sucess.</li> <li>Additional activities: Every network develops additional activities, e.g. the organization of special lectures with external speakers, joint contributions to conferences or invitations to alumni for orientation to future careers.</li> </ul> <h4> </h4> <h4>What funding is available to networks?</h4> <ul> <li>Active Networks can apply for up to 2500 € p.a. for the funding of any individual activities they initiate. Among other things, the money can be used to cover the fees of  speakers, the organization of workshops and scholarly meetings and printing costs for co-authored publications. The funding can be spread over several different activities and applications can be submitted any time.</li> <li>Transferable skills/Kick-off workshop: For every new network, BYRD organises and funds a workshop according to the specific needs of the members (e.g. time management, presentation skills, moderation).</li> <li>BYRD will introduce every new Doc-Network on its web platform and assist in finding new members.</li> </ul> <h4> </h4> <h4>What else could materialize?</h4> <ul> <li>A Doc-Network enables you to join in academic discourse with researchers in your field – also after having completed the PhD process. You are able to establish interdisciplinary contacts and acquire insights and competences beyond the boundaries of your own PhD project.</li> <li>Co-authored publications: Via co-authored publications you can increase your standing in the scientific community. Together with the group or part of it, you can publish joint articles, project results or initiate scholarly meetings.</li> <li>Interesting inclusion in your résumé: When submitting job applications you can refer to your activities and achievements in the Doc-Network, providing an interesting addition to your other qualifications.</li> </ul> Content