E-Learning: Starting Your PhD or Postdoc in Hamburg Successfully

Getting Started in the German Academic System

At the beginning of your doctoral or postdoctoral journey, it is crucial to first and foremost organize the research tasks of your work – while at the same time not losing sight of other relevant aspects that arise in this early phase of your career. Researchers who have not yet gained experience in the German academic system in their previous career phases may face particular challenges in this respect.

In 2025/2026, the Hamburg Research Academy, in cooperation with the provider TwentyOne Skills, is offering a pilot project to help you successfully start your research in Hamburg. Our goal is to facilitate your onboarding into the German academic system and to provide you with the opportunity to acquire important transferable skills and competencies for your daily work. 

Contents

We will provide you with full access to the TwentyOne Skills platform for three months. The e-learning program includes flexible asynchronous learning in several subject areas:

• Working methods: time and self management, presentations, etc.
• Research skills: using AI in research, communicating science, etc.
• Career development: career planning, leadership skills, new work, etc.

Depending on your career stage, you can choose the content that is relevant to you. You will have the opportunity to get an overview in short information sessions or to dive into specific topics interactively.

Please note

• Language: All offers on the platform are available in both German and English!
• Kick off & licence: There will be a short mandatory virtual kick-off session on 26 September, after which you will receive an online license for use for three months (1 October to 31 December).
• Additional licenses will be issued for the period 1 January to 31 March 2026. You can register for these in our course portal. Please note that, to be fair to other interested candidates, only one-time participation is allowed.