Join us for the kick-off event of Postdoc Appreciation Week Germany 2026, where we will discuss how to build research cultures that allow for creativity, encourage successful work, and foster a positive working atmosphere.

The event will feature the presentation of the “Best Research Environment Award” from the Junge Akademie and the Volkswagen Foundation. We will outline the background to the award, its selection criteria, and its broader impact, and explain how you can apply in the next round. Award recipients will present concrete examples of measures implemented within their groups, and reflect on their successes, challenges and lessons learned.

Leave with practical and actionable ideas to improve your local research culture — whether you are a postdoc, PI, research staff member, administrator or university leader.