This highly interactive course, supports postdoctoral researchers preparing to supervise students or lead their own research groups. It draws on tools from psychology, behavioural science, and leadership development, with sessions covering emotional intelligence, communication, conflict management, motivation, coaching, and values-driven leadership.
Feedback from COI participants was overwhelmingly positive:
Mariana Pereira Pinho described the course as “an inspiring and intellectually stimulating experience that pushed me to reflect, listen, and gave me invaluable tools to lead in a more conscious and constructive way.”
Simeon Draganov reflected that “sharing some of my experiences... and hearing their thoughts and feedback was really eye opening in many ways,” and that the course “helped me build my confidence” and offered insights “immensely helpful in my daily interactions.”
Ilknur Sur Erdem noted that “sharing experiences, challenges, and practical strategies with scientists at similar career stages was one of the most rewarding aspects of the course.”
Noushin Zibandeh highlighted how the course “helped me focus on achieving my goals more effectively, develop leadership skills, and navigate challenging situations with greater confidence.”
Julia Chu commented that the training “covered a good variety of essential aspects not only about being a leader but also about being a teammate,” and provided “a safe and friendly space for all of us to share our experience and support.”
Philippa Hulley, speaking on behalf of the wider NDORMS group, shared that “our 7 NDORMS candidates on the EMBO course loved it! They are unanimously enthusiastic and 3 of them started writing feedback before I even asked for it.”
COI is proud to have supported the participation of these outstanding researchers and extends its thanks to EMBO Solutions and to the Medical Sciences Division Hub and NDM Research Culture fund for their funding contributions and collaboration in making this opportunity possible.
Looking ahead, COI will continue to create and support similar opportunities to foster the personal growth and career development of its postdoctoral community.