P(eer)hD support
Interdisciplinary support and a strong network on your way to a doctorate.
Target group: PhD candidates in the first and second year of doctoral studies
Language: English
Duration of the program: 9 month
The application round for the 2023/24 cycle is closed.
Program overview
At the beginning of a doctorate, you will not only be faced with major questions regarding the content of your research in your own research project, but also regarding the right approach to the doctoral process itself, as well as appropriate work and time management. International doctoral candidates in particular also have to gain a foothold in the German science system. It is sometimes very difficult for them to meet like-minded people, find support and network well. If you are an individual PhD candidate in the first or second year of your doctorate, PoGS offers you comprehensive support for this first and important phase of your doctorate with its nine-month P(eer)hD support program.
The main focus of the program lies in the continuous, confidential exchange with other PhD candidates within interdisciplinary working groups, so-called success teams. A retreat at the beginning of the program lays the foundation for the upcoming teamwork. In addition to regular meetings in the success teams and a joint mid-term reflection, you will develop further competencies for your doctorate in four interdisciplinary workshops.
Program goals
- Networking and intercultural exchange
- Learning Peer coaching skills
- Support for doctoral process with targeted workshops
- Insights into the German science system and the German and international job market
Conditions of participation & additional information
The program is aimed at individual PhD candidates of all disciplines in their first or second year of doctorate.
Please note that a distinction is made according to the following three group affiliations:
- University of Potsdam
- Partner institutions
- External
The participation fee depends on your affiliation. For further information please check the current announcement.
Participants of the University of Potsdam must be members of the Potsdam Graduate School. Free membership can be applied for at any time.
If required, free childcare can be organised in Potsdam during the workshops. Please contact us in case of need.
Application
Please submit the following application documents during the application period:
- Online-Registration
- Letter of motivation, including a short description of your PhD research project
- Preliminary confirmation of participation
- Coverage of costs statement (if applicable)
For detailed information, please refer to the announcement.

Contact person: Bettina Bluhm
Bettina Bluhm
Potsdam Graduate School
WIS | Wissenschaftsetage, 4th floor
Bildungsforum
Am Kanal 47
14467 Potsdam