November 24, 2025
Last week, PhD candidates from the BiodeCCodiNNg Doctoral Network and the MiCon Research Training Group came together for a two-day workshop dedicated to communication, open science, and scientific exchange. Bringing together two innovative training programs created the perfect environment for learning, collaboration, and new connections.
🔍 What is MiCon?
MiCon (RTG 2341 “Microbial Substrate Conversion”) is a research training group exploring the mechanistic principles of microbial metabolism. From enzymatic conversion of small organic and inorganic molecules to the biosynthesis of specialized metabolites, MiCon trains early-career scientists to understand and harness microbial metabolic pathways with relevance for biotechnology and medicine. Its interdisciplinary environment brings together expertise from biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, structural biology, and synthetic biology.
📅 Workshop Highlights (Day 1)
Hosted by Prof. Dirk Tischler at Ruhr University Bochum, the workshop kicked off with inspiring scientific and strategic perspectives on open science and research communication:
🔹 Prof. Dirk Tischler – Open Science: Opportunities, Responsibilities & Impact
🔹 Prof. Jürgen Pleiss – Making your biocatalytic data FAIR and AI-ready
🔹 Prof. Dörte Rother – The new STRENDA Guidelines for Biocatalysis
🔹 Prof. Sandy Schmidt – Scientific Presentation: Data for a Public Audience
After the talks, PhD students from both networks presented their research during a poster session. Together, we learned how to evaluate, critique, and discuss scientific posters — an exercise that not only sharpened communication skills but also fostered meaningful interaction between BiodeCCodiNNg and MiCon researchers.
The evening concluded with a festive trip to the Bochum Christmas Market, where both groups connected in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. 🎄✨
📅 Workshop Highlights (Day 2)
Day 2 began with a forward-looking talk by:
🔹 Prof. Kai Tittmann – Tools and formats supporting scientific dissemination
This was followed by one of the workshop’s most inspiring activities:
PhD students pitched their own vision for their future careers, sharing personal goals, scientific aspirations, and imagined lifegoals. Hearing the diversity of ideas and ambitions was truly energizing.
In the afternoon, Prof. Dirk Tischler and Dr. Ruben Ragg offered insightful perspectives from the editor and reviewer viewpoint, a valuable behind-the-scenes look at scientific publishing.
✨ A Valuable Experience for All Participants
This workshop provided an inspiring mix of scientific input, communication training, career reflection, and networking. Bringing together two doctoral programs not only broadened our perspectives but also strengthened connections between early-career researchers across different institutions and disciplines.
A big thank you to all speakers, participants, and organizers for making this crossover workshop such a success!
#BiodeCCodiNNg #Teamwork #DataManagement #Biocatalysis #OpenScience #ResearchAndDevelopment #Collaboration #Innovation #Christmas #msca #horizoneu
