IFS Graduate School for Interdisciplinary Educational Research

In the area of qualification and professional development, in addition to individual support in the individual working groups and the supervision provided there, the focus is on the systematic promotion of scientific and methodological skills across the institute. This includes:

• the Basic Curriculum, consisting of the discussion of current studies and methodological approaches,
• the Qualification Forum (QuaFo) for the presentation and discussion of ongoing doctoral projects,
• the Lecture Series with national and international guests,
• the Doctoral Conference,
• the Methodology Curriculum with biannual workshops on statistical fundamentals, and
• the IFS Career Day on career paths within and outside of research and networking with IFS alumni and alumnae.

Overall, the Center offers a broad-based qualification program that specifically promotes both professional excellence and methodological breadth.

In the area of scientific exchange and networking, the focus is on promoting research-related intra- and interdisciplinary dialogue. Doctoral students regularly participate in scientific conferences. The various IFS conference formats (e.g., Dortmund Symposium on Empirical Educational Research, IFS Education Dialogue) also give them the opportunity to network with key players in the field of education. In addition, internationality is systematically promoted, e.g., in the form of international research stays, conference participation, or the involvement of international guests at the IFS.

The career development and prospects area provides doctoral students with targeted support in planning and shaping their individual career paths—both within academia and in non-academic fields. Regular feedback meetings and a comprehensive career counseling session before completing the doctorate are important building blocks on the career path. Through workshops and counseling services, doctoral candidates acquire skills for successful professional development. In addition, external mentoring strengthens career planning through individual counseling and guidance as needed. The IFS Outstanding Paper Award recognizes and honors outstanding academic achievements.

In the area of academic self-administration and community building, the focus is on actively shaping academic life. Doctoral students take on responsibility by electing a spokesperson and regularly participating in academic staff meetings and institute committees. In addition, they have the opportunity to get involved in application committees for filling positions in various status groups, thereby gaining insight into academic decision-making processes. Various formats, such as a regular doctoral student get-together, also strengthen social interaction in everyday life.