Promoting Early Career Researchers in TRR 241
The Integrated Research Training Group (iRTG) of TRR 241 offers a structured, interdisciplinary training program for doctoral researchers focusing on inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Organized jointly by the Berlin, Kiel, and Erlangen sites, the program combines theoretical foundations, clinical and translational insights, and methodological training.
Scientific Program
The iRTG includes regular events to provide in-depth scientific education and networking opportunities:
- IBD Forum: Monthly interactive seminars featuring PhD presentations (project updates & journal clubs) to foster scientific discussion and critical analysis.
- Meet the Expert: Monthly lectures on experimental methods and clinical aspects of IBD research by TRR 241 PIs and postdocs.
- Guest Lectures: Three international experts per year share current developments in IBD research.
- Annual iRTG Retreat: A two-day scientific meeting with poster sessions, keynote talks, and poster awards.
Career and Skills Development
- Beyond scientific training, iRTG supports personal and professional growth through:
- Mandatory courses in biostatistics, good scientific practice (including 3R principles), and research data management.
- Flexible soft skill courses (e.g., scientific writing, rhetoric, leadership) at graduate schools.
- Conference participation with travel support and TRR 241 Young Travel Awards.
- Public engagement via events like the Long Night of Science and patient seminars.
- Career planning and mentoring with virtual discussions and a mentoring program for female scientists.
- International research stays through TRR 241 fellowships for up to six months.
Contact & Participation
All TRR 241 doctoral researchers are automatically members of the iRTG. Participation in events and programs is mandatory and provides an excellent foundation for a scientific career in IBD research. For more information, contact the iRTG coordinators:
PD Dr. Imke Atreya (Erlangen lead): Imke.Atreya@uk-erlangen.de
Manuela Sickinger (Erlangen admin): manuela.sickinger@uk-erlangen.de
Prof. Dr. Chiara Romagnani (Berlin lead): romagnani@drfz.de
Erika von Bühler (Berlin admin): erika.von-buehler@charite.de
