HIDA Research Writing Lab
A structured, distraction-free week designed to help you make measurable progress on your dissertation, paper, or proposal — combining deep work phases, peer exchange, Inputs and targeted reflection.
The HIDA Research Writing Lab offers participants a dedicated and protected space to advance their dissertation or publication projects. In the midst of research, coding, and collaboration, sustained writing time is often fragmented. This retreat is designed to counteract that dynamic by creating a structured, focused, and supportive environment for substantial writing progress.
The central component of the event consists of extended, carefully structured deep-work sessions. Participants define individual goals at the beginning of the week and work toward them in protected writing blocks throughout the program
Target group
The event is jointly offered to doctoral candidates across the seven HIDS schools, providing a unique opportunity for both concentrated writing and interdisciplinary exchange.
Objectives
The event aims to:
- enable progress on a clearly defined writing project (e.g., dissertation chapter, journal article, conference paper)
- strengthen participants’ strategic approach to academic writing
- provide individualized support for writing challenges
- foster peer exchange and networking across graduate schools and research domains
Core Elements of the Week
- Structured Focus Time
- Input Sessions
- Individual Writing Consultations
- Peer Exchange & Interdisciplinary Networking
- Socializing
Conditions for Participation
To ensure the effectiveness of the event, participants are expected to:
- keep the entire week free of other professional commitments (as far as possible).
- The retreat is designed as a protected writing period. Meetings, teaching obligations, and routine appointments should not be scheduled during this time.
- obtain approval from their PI/supervisor prior to registration.
- Commitment and support from the PI ensures that the doctoral researcher can dedicate the week fully to writing.
Registration procedure and costs
There are 15 seats available for participation in the HIDA Research Writing Lab. The participants will be selected among the applicants, and acceptance / rejection notifications will be sent out in the course of May.
A participation fee of €280 will be charged, which includes accommodation and meals. For those who were selected to participate in the event, there is the possibility to apply for funding to cover costs for travel, accomodation, and meals. Participants will receive further information around the funding together with their notification of admission
If you have questions, don't hestitate to contact us at hida-courses@helmholtz.de
Interested? Apply now! Registration closes on 10 May.