Chalk Talk : Academic Career Planning in Microbiology (satellite workshop of DMF Impromptu)

20 November, 2025, 15:30–18:00

Dr. Christoph Keel, DMF, UNIL ([email protected])

co-chaired by Dr. Jordan Vacheron, DMF, UNIL ([email protected])

Experts (drawn from the symposium lineup):

Dr. Pascale Flury, University of Basel (Junior PI)

Dr. Daniel Garrido-Sanz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (Junior PI)

Prof. Dr. Monika Maurhofer, ETH Zürich (Senior PI)

Prof. Dr. Jos Raaijmakers, NIOO-KNAW, Wageningen (Senior PI)

Chalk Talk : Academic Career Planning in Microbiology (Satellite activity to the DMF Impromtu Symposium)

*** If you also want to participate to the DMF Impromptu Symposium please register here, but note that this is not a CUSO activity!***

This satellite workshop is organized exclusively for CUSO doctoral students and is independent from the DMF Impromptu Symposium taking place the following day. Participation in the symposium is not required to attend this workshop.

The session will focus on academic career planning in microbiology, offering insights into different career stages and trajectories. It will feature informal discussions and Q&A sessions with invited experts from the DMF symposium.

This is a unique opportunity to engage directly with experienced researchers and gain valuable perspectives on building a successful academic career.

*** Registration for the Chalk Talk is required via the CUSO platform***

Workshop Structure (two interactive parts):

1. Student Presentations & Expert Feedback

Participants will deliver brief "chalk talks" (maximum 5 minutes) in which they present their current research and outline potential future directions. A whiteboard will be available in the room for visual explanations and illustrations.

These presentations will be followed by interactive discussions with the invited experts, who will offer structured, constructive feedback in an open and supportive format. The goal is to create a dynamic exchange that sharpens scientific thinking, presentation skills, and clarity of research vision.

2. Academic Career Development: Panel & Group Discussions

This session will bring students and experts together in a mix of small-group discussions and plenary panels focused on academic career development.

Topics will include:

• Navigating the transition from PhD to postdoc to independent PI
• Choosing the right host lab or research environment
• Building a professional network and communicating your science
• Funding strategies and grant writing insights
• Dealing with setbacks and building resilience
• Balancing career advancement with personal and family life

Participants are encouraged to raise additional topics they wish to explore. The session will conclude with a summary of key takeaways.

Participants can expect to gain advice for improved communication skills, clarity in career planning, and networking opportunities.

University of Lausanne – UNIL-Sorge, Ephemere Building, Room 160

EPFL-UNIL campus access Biophore Ephemere

Registration OPEN

Deadline registration : 13 November 2025

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