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Career Support Initiatives

 

The equality reports by the University of Cologne have continually demonstrated that female scientists are underrepresented at the top-tier levels, particularly in the medical as well as STEM areas. Despite a continuous increase in the proportion of female postdocs and professors in ten years, gender balance and equality by far have not been achieved in these areas.

 

To support female members working in the CRC 1530 in furthering their career, we encourage them to take part in career programs and to join the networks that are useful for this aim. In doing so, we will promote and (co-)finance these schemes, as well as organising workshops on demand. Besides the dimension of gender, we want to approach equality and inclusion from an intersectional stance and address those members who are underrepresented in this research area as well, be it due to the dimensions of race, socicoeconomic status or disability. 

 

Career development programmes

 

Female Career Programme 

 

A staple at the University of Cologne since 2001, the Female Career Programme offers an array of workshops that cover the topics of career planning, (self-)presentation and communication. It is targeted at all women at different stages of their (academic) career and provides extensive trainings and coaching for leadership positions.

 

Find more information here: Female Career Programme (FCP)

 


 

Cornelia Harte Mentoring Programme 

 

The Cornelia Harte Mentoring Programme (CHM) is geared towards women pursuing a career in business, science and industry. Based on these different career directions, the aim is to support the participants in their personal and professional career development and to provide them with an insight into their chosen field of work. The CHM is comprised of the following building blocks: one-on-one mentoring, workshops, coaching and networking. Accordingly, it is divided into program lines tailored to the career levels and goals of the participants. 

 

Find more information here: Cornelia Harte Mentoring

 


 

IFS Mentoring: Mentoring for International Female Scholars

 

The IFS Mentoring Program has been the first program of its kind in Germany and is targeted at female postdoctoral researchers and advanced PhD students from abroad. Fully conducted in English, the program includes one-on-one mentoring, an array of workshops as well as networking events that cater to the career development in the participants' desired field. It also enables researchers to familiarize themselves with the structures of the German academic system. 

 

Find more information here: IFS Mentoring: Mentoring Program for International Female Scholars. 

 


 

First Generation Doctorate Mentoring+

 

This unique program is targeted at advanced master students with a non-academic family background, in which students will be matched with a mentor - who also shares the non-academic background - in their field. In addition to one-to-one mentoring, the program also includes workshops tailored to the needs of the target group and addresses questions specific to the peer group, such as dealing with feelings of alienation and self -doubt.

 

Find more information here: First Generation Promotion Mentoring +

 

 

Diversity and support networks at Uni Cologne

 

Anti-discrimination network at the Medical Faculty

 

Have you experienced a racist situation? Have you been insulted because of your disability? Have you been confronted with sexist statements? Have you been affected by harassment or sexual misconduct? Are you considering what action(s) to take?

The Anti-Discrimination Network at the Faculty of Medicine offers various support options. You can get in touch with the contact persons in the network or contact the Coordination Office directly. It is also possible to report harrassment anonymously using a contact form. 

 

Servicezentrum Inklusion

 

Support and guidance for students with a disability, chronic or mental illness. You can contact the team to discuss

  • - dealing with stressful situations during your studies due to disability or chronic illness
  • - adapting an everyday study routine based on your individual situation and the ability to cope
  • - guidance on returning to your studies after illness.
Queer CECAD

 

A vibrant and supportive network initiative on the Life Science Campus dedicated to empowering the LGBTQIA2S+ community and its allies. 

Their mission is to create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment where every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can thrive both personally and professionally. Meetings take place every month; join their mailing list for updates. 

 

All counselling services on diversity and equal opportunities

 

If you have been affected and feel able to discuss your experiences with someone else in a protected space, you might consider contacting any of the counselling services and units on campus