Into Science Retreat 2025

 When: 06.05.-08.05.2026

 Where: Illmitz, Lake Neusiedl

The fourth Into Science Seminar Retreat took place at Lake Neusiedl and placed science communication at the heart of the program for early-stage researchers. The setting itself enriched the experience: Lake Neusiedl’s unique steppe–lake landscape, with its expansive reed beds and rich flora and fauna, bears traces of the ancient Pannonian Sea—an inland sea that covered the region million years ago. The first day set the foundation with an opening session on what science is and why we do it, linking rigor and curiosity with societal impact. This led into an introduction to science communication that explored how to frame messages, shape clear narratives, and align content with audience needs. Participants reflected on their personal motivations for pursuing research and practiced translating those motivations into concise, compelling messages that convey both purpose and relevance.

On the second day, PhD candidates put these skills into action through practice presentations tailored to three audiences: scientific peers, lay audiences, and funding agencies. They refined their research stories for each context—highlighting methods and evidence for scientists, accessibility and real-world impact for non-specialists, and significance, feasibility, and outcomes for funders. Between sessions, a relaxed bike tour along the lakeshore and birdwatching around the reed belts created time for informal exchange, helping participants compare communication strategies and build collegial networks amid the region’s distinctive biodiversity. 

The third day moved behind the scenes to focus on personal career pathways in science and the critical role of good supervision. Speakers and participants discussed choices within and beyond academia, the skills that support sustainable careers, and how effective supervision—grounded in clear expectations, constructive feedback, and inclusive, supportive relationships—shapes the path of supervisees. Throughout the retreat, the interplay of structured training and the social exchanges during the Day 2 bike tour and birdwatching fostered a strong sense of community. The interdisciplinary environment, combined with Lake Neusiedl’s remarkable natural backdrop, helped participants build confidence and competence in sharing science with diverse audiences.

 

 

 

 Who: PhD candidates & lecturers from each CoBeNe discipline

22 PhD candidates:

  • 15 PhD candidates from Psychology
  • 1 PhD candidate from Behavioral Biology
  • 4 PhD candidates from Neurosciences
  • 2 PhD candidates from Cognitive Humanities

Lecturers & Coordinator:

  • Thomas Bugnyar & Sabine Tebbich (Behavioral and Cognitive Biology)
  • Laura König & Ulrich Ansorge (Psychology)
  • Thomas Hummel (Neuroscience)
  • Katja Hellekes (CoBeNe Office)