KHYS @ European Doctoral Day 2026
Across Europe, where science and research are core values, May 13th is now celebrated as European Doctoral Day — a day to highlight the vital role of doctoral education and the impact of doctoral graduates as key agents of innovation. A day to recognize their role in helping society navigate a rapidly changing world and in shaping Europe’s scientific, economic, industrial, and technological future.
KHYS has joined the initiative to celebrate the European Doctoral Day with a series of events from May, 11 to May 13.
Registration will be open from March 26, 11 a.m.
Program
Monday, May 11, 2026
online (zoom)
Resilience is more than just “bouncing back.” Research shows that people who develop resilience not only cope with stress and setbacks but can also thrive when facing obstacles. Academic life is full of pressure, change, and perceived failure, which can leave us feeling low on emotional and mental resources. The good news is that resilience and grit are skills that can be learned, practiced, and strengthened.
This interactive workshop helps participants identify and build the mental and emotional skills needed to navigate academic challenges with confidence. Through practical exercises, reflection, and group interaction, participants will develop strategies to regulate emotions, manage stress, and reframe difficult situations so challenges feel manageable rather than overwhelming.
The workshop is aimed at doctoral researchers and postdocs.
Francesca Carlin
K 26, Kaiserstr. 26, D-76133 Karlsruhe
As Europe faces growing digital threats, cybersecurity has become essential for protecting economies and critical infrastructures. In exchange with experts, we will explore current challenges and discuss how we can shape a secure digital future. Therefore, we invite members of academia, industry and society to join us and share their perspectives.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
online (zoom)
The decision to pursue a doctorate raises many questions: What are the admission requirements? What types of doctoral procedures are available? How do I find a topic? Who will supervise me? As the central institution for early-career support, KHYS is the main contact point for advising prospective doctoral researchers at KIT. This presentation provides an overview of all essential information related to pursuing a doctorate at KIT, including the necessary formal steps before, during, and at the end of your doctoral project, and it introduces the funding programs offered by KHYS.
Jutta Klein-Hitpaß (KHYS)
online (zoom)
After having successfully finished their doctorate, many young researchers are faced with the decision whether to take the next step in their scientific career with a postdoc position or to continue their professional path outside the scientific community. In this lecture, we will give an outline of the general framework conditions of the postdoc phase in Germany and of the specific counseling, support, and funding opportunities at KIT.
Dr. Claire Leibner Earnshaw (KHYS)
2-3:30 p.m.
Are you looking for a job in industry or are you already in the application phase and need support in the application process? The expert tips of the KIT Career Service on the topic of applying to jobs outside academic research in Germany give you assistance and orientation through the application jungle.
Sabine Reiser (Career Service)
For all events across Europe please visit the official European Doctoral Day 2026 website.
The European Doctoral Day is a joint initiative by European networks mobilized for doctoral education, among them the EUA-CDE, the Coimbra Group, the PRIDE network, the LERU Doct. Policy group, the French Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Space, Euraxess France, Eurodoc, the MSCA Alumni association and others.