Verbund WKJ „Wissenschaftler:innen und Karriere Jena“

Workshop- und Maßnahmen-Programm Verbund WKJ

• 'Neuro... what?' – Introductory talk on neurodiversity

  Datum: 9. April 2026, 10:00 bis 12:00 Uhr
  Ort: Online, Zugangsdaten werden kurz vor Beginn an angemeldete Personen verschickt
  Trainer:in: Jessica Stazzone Manazza

  Exploring neurodiversity and neurodivergence in a sensitive and professional way.

  Although the term 'neurodiversity' has become increasingly prominent in recent years, it still raises many questions. What exactly do we mean by it? Join us for this online talk, where we explore the reality of how we think, perceive and interact with the world, moving beyond buzzwords.

  The term 'neurodivergence' covers a broad spectrum, including autism spectrum, ADHD, dyscalculia, dyslexia and much more. Although not visible 'from the outside', it can manifest in different ways in everyday life, studies and professional life and can lead to impairments ranging from minor to severe. Neurodivergent people differ from neurotypical people in how they process information and perceive environmental influences, as well as in how they control aspects such as concentration and self-regulation.

  This makes neurodivergence a highly relevant topic, especially in professional and educational contexts.

  What we’ll explore together:

  •  Decoding the terminology: What does 'neurodiversity' mean from a diversity and inclusion perspective?
  •  Shifting the lens: Why moving from a 'deficit-based' model ('What’s wrong with you?') to a 'neurodiversity-informed' model is a game-changer for understanding neurodiversity. How do our nervous systems differ? How we perceive and understand data differently?
  •  Identifying invisible barriers: Which barriers do neurodivergent individuals face, from sensory overload to 'neuronormative' social expectations, to stereotypes and ableism and the influence of media.
  •  A path toward neuroinclusion: A brief overview of most important factors to foster inclusion, not just 'tolerance' of difference.

  This session is designed to gain an initial insight into the topic and to sensitively explore the diversity and complexity of neurodivergence. It is not just a lecture—it is an interactive space where you will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage in meaningful discussion.

  Neurodiversity is not a niche topic, but a fundamental part of the human diversity.

  Registrierung über das Qualifizierungsportal:https://qualifizierung.uni-jena.de/pages/coursedescription.jsf?courseId=85245035&catalogId=80638231&locale=deExterner Link

  If you have trouble registering please contact the coordination office of the WKJ Network: verbund.wkj@uni-jena.de

• Raise your hand! How to follow your path with self-confidence

  Datum: 07. Mai 2026, 9:00 bis 16:00 Uhr
  Ort: SR Accouchierhaus, Jenergasse 8
  Trainer:in: Antje Rach

  Raise your hand! How to follow your path with self-confidence. A workshop for female scientists
  Recognizing obstructive patterns of thought and behaviour and enabling change
  In almost all areas of life, traditional gender roles are dissolving. However, only around 20-25% of top positions are held by women – in industry as well as in academia. Women still have a hard time to break the glass ceiling. Moreover, after starting a family, many of them unintentionally fall back into the classical role patterns. Even highly qualified women are often left out at a certain level. Why is that? What part do external structures and role expectations play in this – and what strategies and actions do women use to hinder themselves?
  In the workshop we will get to the bottom of these questions against the background of social and structural conditions on the one hand and our own biographies on the other. We analyse internal and external success factors for a successful career and reflect on ourselves: Which of these factors – in the form of resources, skills or beneficial thought and action patterns – do I already have; which may be needed or missing? Which of my own beliefs and patterns are preventing me from performing, asserting myself and getting ahead? How can I dissolve these or constructively integrate them into my path in such a way that change becomes possible?
  Contents at a glance:

  • Intro: women & careers through the ages
  • Biography work: how does my biography influence my life and my career?
  • Defining my own values
  • Recognizing / working with beliefs & inner drivers
  • Developing beneficial options of behaviour for my own path
  • Role clarity and setting boundaries
  • Dealing with stereotypes and (gender) bias

  Registrierung über das Qualifizierungsportal: https://qualifizierung.uni-jena.de/pages/coursedescription.jsf?courseId=84891197&catalogId=80638231Externer Link

  If you have trouble registering please contact the coordination office of the WKJ Network: verbund.wkj@uni-jena.de 

  Mehr erfahrenExterner Link
• You Belong in Academia: Empowering Minority Researchers to Overcome Challenges

  Datum: 20. und 21. Mai 2026, 9:00 bis 13:00 Uhr
  Ort: Online, Zugangsdaten werden kurz vor Beginn an angemeldete Personen verschickt
  Trainer:in: Dr. Emma Geoffray

  Are you struggling as a minority researcher? Women, people of color, expats, LGBTQAI+ and neurodivergent individuals often face unique and amplified challenges. Some attempt to cope by minimizing their identity, hoping to fit in, while others rely solely on themselves to overcome difficulties—strategies that can leave them feeling even more isolated or unwelcome.
  
  Our approach empowers you with research-backed tools to overcome internal pressures, like imposter syndrome, and external obstacles, such as unconscious bias and microaggressions. You’ll explore ways to strengthen your sense of belonging and well-being in academia, equipping you for success despite systemic and psychological barriers.
  
  In this hands-on workshop, which combines lessons with individual assessments and group discussions, you’ll learn and practice skills such as:
  • Understanding who is a minority in science and why intersectionality matters,
  • Recognizing when stereotype threat might affect your academic performance,
  • Navigating imposter syndrome and self-doubt effectively,
  • Reducing stress and preventing burnout with flexible coping strategies,
  • Addressing bias and macro- or microaggressions,
  • Enhancing well-being and mental health with evidence-based tactics,
  • Mastering conflict resolution and assertive communication,
  • Developing and strengthening your support network.
  
  By the end of the workshop, you’ll gain practical tools to face and overcome pervasive challenges in academia. Imagine feeling empowered to confidently step into your role in the academic community. Join us to strengthen your sense of belonging as you pursue your academic career.
  This is a two-day workshop with 4 hours per day. 

  Registrierung über das Qualifizierungsportal: 
  https://qualifizierung.uni-jena.de/pages/coursedescription.jsf?courseId=85551723&catalogId=80638231Externer Link

  If you have trouble registering please contact the coordination office of the WKJ Network: verbund.wkj@uni-jena.de

  Mehr erfahrenExterner Link
• Career Options Outside Academia: How to Find Suitable Jobs in Germany

  Datum: 07. Juli 2026, 9:00 bis 15:30 Uhr
  Ort: Online, Zugangsdaten werden kurz vor Beginn an angemeldete Personen verschickt
  Trainer:in: Dr. Annika Bartsch

  Ziel des Workshops ist die Ermittlung der eigenen fachlichen und personalen Kompetenzen sowie die Klärung der Frage, wie dazu passende Stellenprofile auf dem deutschen außerakademischen Arbeitsmarkt gefunden werden können. Besondere Berücksichtigung finden gender-spezifische Herausforderungen in der beruflichen Orientierung und in der Ausgestaltung von Stellen sowie die Vereinbarkeit von Beruf und Familie.

  Umsetzung

  • Klärung der fachlichen und personalen Kompetenzen als Ausgangspunkt von differenzierten Such-strategien: Die Teilnehmer*innen lernen verschiedene Methoden der Kompetenzanalyse kennen.

  • Welche Chancen bietet der außerakademische Arbeitsmarkt für Promovierende und Promovierte? Was sind typische und was sind eher untypische Stellen? Wie stellen sich Zugangs- und Aufstiegschancen dar (im Hinblick auf Gender- und weitere Aspekte)? Wie sieht das Verhältnis von Beruf und Privatleben aus?

  • Stellensuche: Welche Möglichkeiten gibt es, ausgeschriebene Stellen in der Privatwirtschaft, im Öffentlichen Dienst (Verwaltung, Wissenschaftsmanagement u. a.) und bei NGOs zu finden?

  • Welche besonderen Chancen und Herausforderungen gibt es für Bewerberinnen?

  • Zeitplanung und Ziele: Reflexion der beruflichen Ziele, auch im Verhältnis zu weiteren Lebenszielen; Planen der nächsten Schritte

  Methoden: Impulsvorträge, angeleitete Selbstreflexion, Gruppen- und Plenumsgespräche

  Registrierung über das Qualifizierungsportal:
  https://qualifizierung.uni-jena.de/pages/coursedescription.jsf?courseId=82482491&catalogId=80638231Externer Link

  If you have trouble registering please contact the coordination office of the WKJ Network: verbund.wkj@uni-jena.de

  Mehr erfahrenExterner Link
• Cultivating Resilience and a Growth Mindset in Academia

  Datum: 15. Oktober 2026, 9:00 bis 17:00 Uhr
  Ort: Präsenz, Raum wird noch bekannt gegeben
  Trainer:in: Dr. Emma Geoffray

  Are setbacks and failures in your research causing frustration? Early career researchers often encounter obstacles that can feel daunting, and conventional advice may seem superficial or misaligned with academia's unique demands, leaving many feeling discouraged. The right tools, however, can transform these hardships into opportunities for growth.
  Our method offers research-backed approaches to build resilience and adopt a growth mindset, helping you navigate the ups and downs of academia with confidence. You’ll develop adaptable, practical strategies to bounce back after challenges and build a mindset that fosters long-term success and satisfaction.
  In this hands-on workshop, which combines lessons with individual assessments and group discussions, you’ll learn and practice skills such as:

  • Normalizing and learning from failures and setbacks,
  • Leveraging your strengths to build resilience,
  • Watching for signs of burnout and making time for life outside academia,
  • Embracing a mindset of continual growth,
  • Navigating imposter syndrome and self-doubt effectively,
  • Harnessing the power of both positive and negative emotions,
  • Preparing for common academic challenges and learning to pivot,
  • Recognising how culture shapes our mindset.

  By the end of this workshop, you’ll have practical tools to foster resilience and a growth mindset that will sustain you throughout your academic career. Imagine a future where you meet challenges with confidence, view setbacks as growth opportunities, and maintain a balanced life. Join us to build the resilience you need to succeed in academia.

  Registrierung über das Qualifizierungsportal: 
  https://qualifizierung.uni-jena.de/pages/coursedescription.jsf?courseId=85551768&catalogId=80638231&locale=deExterner Link

  If you have trouble registering please contact the coordination office of the WKJ Network: verbund.wkj@uni-jena.de

  Mehr erfahrenExterner Link