IMPRS-QST Summer School
IMPRS-QST students hold their annual Summer School two days prior to the MCQST2025 Conference. As an essential component of the graduate school, the students themselves design the event agenda. This gathering serves as a platform for all IMPRS-QST students to engage in idea exchange, gain fresh perspectives from Alumni, draw inspiration from industry career talks, and gain insights into the latest research from esteemed experts in specialized lectures. Furthermore, the Summer School features four workshops aimed at enhancing the students' soft skills.
Please note that the Summer School is open to IMPRS-QST students only!
Enabling Skills Workshops
Explaining Science with Images
This interactive workshop teaches the basics of graphic design and visual communication, specifically for scientists. The workshop aims to improve the ability to analyze and create useful images. Hence, participants learn to think critically about how their individual research output and its visual representation are related and get the opportunity to implement their ideas and techniques right away. The course covers the historical use of images in science and data representation and establishes the fundamental components of visual communication and design theory. Insights into analyzing and creating useful scientific illustrations are provided by looking in more detail into i) tools, ii) typography, iii) color and iv) layout. Participants are encouraged to design a valuable project for upcoming publications or presentations.
About the trainer
Dr. Johannes Richers is a scientist and designer located in Tübingen, Germany. In his work, the self-employed freelance creative combines the fields of science, art and design. He received his academic education from the Technical University of Munich (M.Sc. Chemistry and Dr. rer. nat.), the Technical University in Berlin (2nd M.Sc. in Science Marketing), and the Hasso Plattner Institute in Potsdam (Design Thinking – Basic Track). He was supported by the German National Academic Foundation (Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes), received the ‘SciFinder Future Leader Award’ from the American Chemical Society in 2016, and was selected as ‘Artist in Residence’ at Factory Berlin × Sonar+D in 2019. Jo Richers has designed more than 100 cover pages for scientific journals, has contributed to a range of successfull research grant proposals (incl. ESC, POF, SFB, COE, NCCR) and is eager to share his knowledge in a variety of seminars and workshops.
Explaining Science with Images – Theory and application of visual science communication
This interactive workshop teaches the basics of graphic design, visual communication, and the use of images in science, and provides insight into how to analyze and create scientific illustrations.
About the trainer
Dr. Johannes ‘Jo’ Richers, based in Tübingen, Germany, holds a doctorate in chemistry and a master's in science marketing. Through his work blending science, art, and design, he's become known for his impactful journal covers and creative contributions to the scientific landscape. Jo shares his expertise through seminars and workshops, focusing on visual science communication and storytelling.
Plan and Follow Through: Goal Setting, Time Tracking and Project Management for PhDs
This workshop is designed to empower early career researchers with the practical skills to successfully plan their research. It focuses on three key aspects: goal setting, time tracking, and project management. Gain clarity and set meaningful goals aligned with your aspirations and research objectives. Learn proven time management strategies to optimize productivity and create a realistic schedule. Develop project management skills to break down complex tasks, set priorities, stay organized and meet deadlines. To tailor this workshop to the participants’ needs and the shorter training format, participants will be asked to choose two out of six possible learning outcomes:
- Set goals that are aligned with your motivations and research objectives,
- Get a realistic estimate on the time you have available,
- Break down your goals into manageable projects and tasks,
- Plan over the short, medium, and long term using digital or analogue tools,
- Keep track of your progress, follow through on your plan, and adjust it if necessary,
- Bounce back and pivot when nothing goes according to plan.
Participants get to practice their organizational skills through several exercises during the workshop. Join us to gain the skills needed to plan and achieve your research goals.
About the trainer
Dr. Emma Geoffray, founder of Grow into your PhD. I have experience in international research (particularly in Switzerland and Germany) in the field of theoretical particle physics. Following my graduation in early 2023, I have conducted successful training programs on the topics of mental health, planning and presentations for researchers. Known for my engaging teaching style and my ability to create an inclusive learning environment, I am dedicated to supporting the academic growth of junior scientists. My goal is to weave together my research background, with my writing skills and years of acting, to deliver high-impact and entertaining workshops.
3D Computer Generated Images
In this course, we will step into the world of Computer Generated Images (CGI). After we familiarized ourselves with the Software "3D Studio Max", we will model objects, assign textures, set up lights and cameras and of course render out the final image.
Tech. Requirements: Windows Laptop (no Mac OS / Linux), Mouse, min. 4GB RAM, 10GB Disk Space. A dedicated Graphics Card and 8GB + RAM is recommended.
About the Trainer
Christoph Hohmann studied Media Technology at the TH Deggendorf and is working as a media designer for scientific content since 2011 at the LMU München Physics Faculty. His work focuses on visual science communication, through which he has created over 100 cover images for journals such as Nature, Science, or Advanced Materials.