Course Topics
Introduction on being a scientist, responsible conducting of research and experimental design. You will get insights on how to read, write and review a paper, how to apply for conferences and awards and how to handle your literature. The course covers theoretical lectures as well as practical activities. A two-days mock conference will conclude the lecture where you present your posters or make an oral presentation.

Teaching format
The course covers theoretical lectures as well as practical activities. A two-days mock conference will conclude the lecture where you present your posters or make an oral presentation.

Educational objectives
1. Knowledge and Understanding: Students will gain a foundational understanding of the academic environment and scientific research processes, including how to survive and thrive as early career scientists. This includes developing scientific ideas and learning the principles underlying effective research design and analysis. 2. Applying Knowledge and Understanding: Participants will apply their knowledge by organizing, planning, and conducting their own PhD projects. They will also practice critical reading and evaluation of scientific papers, enhancing their ability to implement research methodologies in real-world scenarios. 3. Making Judgements: Students will develop the ability to critically assess scientific literature, identify strengths and weaknesses in research, and make informed decisions about experimental design and data interpretation. 4. Communication Skills: Students will improve their ability to communicate scientific ideas and results clearly and effectively, both in written essays and through oral presentations at the “mock conference”. 5. Learning Skills: Through active participation and engagement with both required and supplementary readings, students will enhance their independent learning skills and develop strategies for continuous professional development in academia.

Assessment
Because the main part of the progress towards the learning outcomes takes place in classroom, your regular participation on 80% of the classes is essential. You will be evaluated based on the active participation during the course, the written essay of an abstract and your final presentation at the Mock conference

Evaluation criteria
Active participation, contribution of written essays and the final presentation at the “mock conference” are required to pass the class.