University of Helsinki Reinvents Doctoral Training with National Pilot Program

University of Helsinki Reinvents Doctoral Training with National Pilot Program

(IN BRIEF) The University of Helsinki has launched a Doctoral Education Pilot to modernize doctoral training in response to societal and career demands. Part of a national program funding 1,000 three-year doctoral positions, the pilot aims to enhance researchers’ skills, career readiness, and collaborative practices. Doctoral researchers selected in 2024 participated in Base Camp sessions at research stations, focusing on skills like project management, interdisciplinary collaboration, and science communication. Peer mentoring and community-building were key aspects of the program, which has received praise from participants for fostering connections and broadening perspectives. The initiative reflects the University’s commitment to innovation in doctoral education and societal impact.

(PRESS RELEASE) HELSINKI, 18-Dec-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — The University of Helsinki’s Doctoral Education Pilot began in autumn 2024, marking a significant step in reshaping doctoral education to align with the changing needs of society and the evolving demands of professional life. This initiative, part of a broader national pilot, aims to innovate doctoral training and equip researchers with skills to thrive both academically and in diverse career paths.

The national pilot program provides funding for 1,000 three-year doctoral researcher positions, all of which are integrated into various education pilot projects. At the University of Helsinki, the program seeks to develop new frameworks to strengthen researchers’ capabilities, support career progression, and offer creative approaches to doctoral training.

Doctoral researchers were selected through two rounds of applications, with the autumn 2024 call completing the recruitment process. Of the approximately 170 researchers chosen in the spring, three-quarters commenced their studies and research in autumn 2024, while the remaining spring and autumn recruits are set to begin in early 2025. The initial months have focused on familiarizing participants with their research environments and introducing the University’s extensive support and resource services.

Building Skills Through Base Camp Sessions

To foster both academic and practical expertise, the University of Helsinki Doctoral School organized Base Camp sessions at Tvärminne zoological station in Hanko, Lammi biological station in Hämeenlinna, and Hyytiälä forest station in Juupajoki. These immersive training sessions provided new doctoral researchers with essential skills, including project management, responsible research practices, interdisciplinary collaboration, and science communication. Topics such as entrepreneurship, innovation, sustainability, and artificial intelligence were also integrated into the curriculum.

A key component of the pilot is peer mentoring, where doctoral researchers support each other through small group interactions, enhancing collaboration and shared learning. The communal atmosphere at these camps received high praise from participants, who valued the opportunity to connect with peers across disciplines.

Eetu Halm, a participant in the DREAM Doctoral Education Pilot, shared his experience: “Bringing together doctoral researchers from diverse fields is an excellent idea. It’s been inspiring to meet people beyond my own research group, exchange tips, and discuss our projects. While topics like sustainability and AI may not directly relate to my work, they’ve broadened my perspective and inspired new ways to approach my research.”

Similarly, Rene Wong from the iCANDOC Doctoral Education Pilot emphasized the effort behind organizing these events: “The logistics of the camps are incredibly complex, so I truly appreciate the organizers’ commitment to creating a meaningful experience. It’s been a great opportunity to learn while also enjoying a supportive environment.”

Innovating Doctoral Education for the Future

The Doctoral Education Pilot is part of the University of Helsinki’s long-term strategy to enhance doctoral training and make it more adaptable to societal challenges. By emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration, responsible research, and career-ready skills, the program aims to ensure that doctoral researchers are well-equipped to contribute to both academic and non-academic sectors.

For more insights and personal experiences from participants like Eetu and Rene, visit the University of Helsinki’s Doctoral Education Pilot blog, Doctoral Lounge.

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SOURCE: University of Helsinki