Berlin PostDoc Day 2025: Networking, Careers & Innovation
The Fritz Haber Institute is once again proud to have supported the Berlin PostDoc Day (PDD25), an annual event that has established itself as a significant platform for PostDocs across various disciplines. This year, the event took place on November 6th and 7th as part of the Berlin Science Week and was organized by a diverse team of Berlin-based PostDocs from MDC, FMP, FHI, Charité, and BAM. Around ten FHI researchers attended, with five FHI postdocs and senior PhD students presenting their work in the poster session, showcasing the institute’s commitment to fostering scientific exchange and early-career development.
The Berlin PostDoc Day 2025 took place at the Humboldt Graduate School, Luisenstraße 56, providing a vibrant platform for postdoctoral researchers across Berlin. A total of 126 participants attended, including around ten researchers from the Fritz Haber Institute (FHI). Among the organizers was Dr. Hemanth S. Pillai, Postdoc in the Theory Department of our institute. Five FHI postdocs and senior PhD students presented their research in the poster session, which was reintroduced this year after a break last year. Over the years, PostDoc Day has evolved into a key networking platform, drawing participants from diverse disciplines. This year’s program featured engaging talks, interactive networking sessions, and insights into emerging career opportunities.
Interactive Roundtable Discussions
For the first time, the event featured thematic roundtables, allowing participants to exchange ideas and practical insights in smaller groups. The five roundtables focused on:
• Grant Writing
• Career Paths in Biopharma
• Translating Research into Applications
• Green Chemistry: Which Chemical Innovations Should Reach the Market?
• Data Management & AI in the Life Sciences
These sessions offered in-depth discussions and practical guidance on challenges and opportunities for postdoctoral researchers.
Workshops for Personal and Professional Development
On the second day, participants could choose from a wide range of workshops aimed at developing transferable skills and leadership abilities. Workshops included:
• Storytelling for Scientists (Miett Xylander)
• Successful Networking as a Researcher (Thomas Knappe)
• Consulting Skills (Janna Leiz)
• Writing Grant Proposals (Annette Kolb)
• Leadership & Supervision in Academia (Matteo Garavoglia)
• Micropolitics in Research Institutions (Anke Kautz)
The workshops provided hands-on tools to support participants in advancing their scientific careers strategically.
Creative Highlight: Visual Summary of the Day
A special highlight of PostDoc Day 2025 was a scientific illustrator, Miriam Barton, who captured key discussions throughout the day and created a large final illustration summarizing the event’s main themes. The artwork reflects the spirit of the day—interdisciplinary, creative, and highly interactive.
The Fritz Haber Institute emphasizes its support for the PostDoc Day 2025 as part of its commitment to fostering early-career researchers and promoting interdisciplinary exchange. Events like this strengthen both individual development and the wider scientific community.