From 1-5th June 2026, Alaa Gamiel, a PhD student, participated in the EUGLOH Living Lab: Crafting My PhD Journey – From Research to Career 2026, hosted by Lund University.
The week-long interactive programme brought together doctoral researchers from EUGLOH partner universities to reflect on their PhD journeys, strengthen transferable research skills, and exchange experiences in an international and interdisciplinary environment.
The programme addressed key aspects of doctoral education, including defining research motivation and goals, applying SMART principles for project planning and productivity, collaboration, and scientific communication, shaping effective supervisory relationships, responsible research practices, and planning the final stages of the PhD alongside future career perspectives.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in presentations, problem-based learning, peer-to-peer discussions, group work, and plenary sessions, encouraging reflection, knowledge exchange, and collaborative problem-solving. The programme also included dedicated sessions on time management, deep work in academia, science communication, and a Science Slam, providing valuable opportunities to develop both professional and presentation skills.
“Participating in this Living Lab enabled me to reflect on my own doctoral project from a broader perspective while gaining practical strategies for research planning, communication, collaboration, and career development. The experience also fostered valuable connections with fellow PhD researchers from diverse disciplines and cultural backgrounds across the EUGLOH alliance, reinforcing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing future scientific and global health challenges. Thanks to the organizers (Johan Mårtensson and David Larsson Heidenblad, Lund University, Isolde von Bülow and Florian Kniffka, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Kerstin Lange, University of Hamburg) and the EUGLOH alliance for providing this enriching learning experience, which will positively contribute to the remainder of my PhD studies and my future academic career.” said Alaa Gamiel.
