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Logo Sociology of Migration and Education
Department of Social Science
The green logo of TU Dortmund University is standing on a meadow. A smartphone is leaning against it. © archive​/​TU Dortmund

Liesa Traupe as a guest at this year's spring academy of the UA Ruhr

Infographic for the UA Ruhr Research Academy’s “Spring Academy.” In the top left corner, a yellow, stylized lightbulb is depicted as a symbol of ideas. In large text, it reads: “Spring Academy – For a Great Start to Your Doctorate!” Below that: “March 24–26, 2026, UDE.” On the right is a text box with the question: “Is a doctoral dissertation the right choice for me? And if so, how do I get started and how do I structure my ‘PhD project’?” This is followed by a brief description of experts from the UA Ruhr and events featuring information sessions, testimonials, and workshops on the doctoral phase. At the bottom right are “Program & Registration by March 6” and a QR code. At the bottom are the logos of the participating universities (including UA Ruhr, RUB, TU Dortmund, and the University of Duisburg-Essen). The design features shades of blue and yellow and appears informative and inviting. Translated with DeepL.com (free version) © freepik​/​UA Ruhr
A report on the early-year academy 2026 of the Research Academy of the University Alliance Ruhr (UA Ruhr)

From March 24 to 26, 2026, the graduate institutions of the University Alliance Ruhr (UA Ruhr) hosted their early-year academy for doctoral candidates in the start-up phase. This format consistently focuses on cross-university qualification and networking in the Ruhr region. The coordinated programme offered young researchers an interdisciplinary and low-threshold framework for formal and organizational questions, professional exchange and collegial networking.

The event kicked off with an in-depth opening session that provided a well-founded overview of the options for structuring doctorates in the German higher education system. This was followed by a panel event that facilitated (specialist) academic exchange between postdocs and newly started doctoral students. The comprehensive explanations on research data management and publication strategy should also be emphasized. The event concluded with an open exchange on doctoral-related challenges and coping strategies.
The subsequent workshop days conveyed practical skills that can be applied directly in everyday doctoral work. By alternating between input and application phases, both interdisciplinary key skills, for example in the areas of academic presentation and communication, as well as doctorate-specific topics were covered. At the end of the workshop, the participants had concrete tools and an initial framework for their respective doctoral projects.

Conclusion: The UA Ruhr's Frühjahrakademie combines content qualification and interdisciplinary networking in a convincing way. For doctoral candidates in the start-up phase, the format offers real added value - across universities, interdisciplinary and at eye level. A clear recommendation.

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