Into Science Retreat 2025

 When: 02.06.-04.06.2025

 Where: Illmitz, Lake Neusiedl

The third Into Science Seminar Retreat took place once again in the picturesque setting of Lake Neusiedl.  Designed specifically for early-stage researchers, the retreat offered participants a valuable opportunity to connect with their peers. Main activities focused on building connections, presenting effective elevator talks, reflecting on the question ‘What is science?’, and discussing personal motivations for pursuing a career in research. In this interdisciplinary environment, PhD candidates were encouraged early on to communicate their research to peers from a broader audience with diverse academic backgrounds.This fostered the development of clear communication skills, crucial not only for collaboration across fields but also for effectively communicating science to society. The retreat also highlighted the important role of supervision in the PhD journey. Both the perspectives of being supervised and supervising were explored, with discussions focusing on expectation management, and building supportive, constructive working relationships.

Scientific presentations spanned animal behavior, psychology, and neuroscience. Topics included foraging in wild birds, movement and feeding ecology of Galápagos short-eared owls, penguin courtship displays, emotion recognition and neural synchrony in autism, attention control, AI-assisted anxiety treatment, and shared neural processes in structure-building across music and language. In addition to the talks, lecturers also gave short research pitches, offering insight into their current projects and interests.

After two days of engaging scientific discussions, participants had the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area. A bike excursion through the nearby national park provided a refreshing change of pace, as well as a chance to unwind and recharge. As they cycled through landscapes, participants continued conversations in a relaxed setting, deepening connections and fostering new friendships. Beyond the excursion, many also socialized while swimming or relaxing by the pool, enjoying the warm weather in a friendly environment. 

 Who: PhD candidates & lecturers from each CoBeNe discipline

We thank all participants for their insightful presentations, meaningful discussions, and for fostering a collegial atmosphere.

PhD candidates:

  • 12 PhD candidates from Psychology
  • 4 PhD candidates from Biology
  • 1 PhD candidate from Cognitive Humanities

Lecturers & Coordinator:

  • Leonida Fusani & Didone Frigerio (Behavioral and Cognitive Biology)
  • Veronika Job & Giorgia Silani (Psychology)
  • Thomas Hummel (Neuroscience)
  • Jutta Mueller (Cognitive Humanities)
  • Katja Hellekes (CoBeNe Office)