Leadership Lab for Researchers: Communication Skills for Research Leaders

Target group: new group leaders and postdocs who supervise others or coordinate teams or collaborative research projects.

Language: English

Description: 
Effective communication is one of the most important leadership tools in research - for aligning expectations, giving feedback, supporting motivation, and addressing challenges constructively. In this interactive workshop, participants will expand their communication toolbox and practise approaches for everyday leadership situations in research environments.

Topics include:

• Guiding principles for clear and respectful communication in research teams
• Using Situational Leadership to offer the right balance of guidance and support
• Preparing and leading structured 1:1 conversations and team meetings
• Giving feedback, setting boundaries and delegating with respect and clarity

Working methods: short theoretical input, small-group discussions, peer exchange, and practical exercises

About the trainer: Dr. Yasmin Dolak-Struss is a trainer and systemic coach for researchers. She studied Technical Physics and did her doctorate in Biomathematics at the Vienna University of Technology. After several years in research, she joined a large research funding organisation where she advised and trained international researchers on European funding programmes and career development. In 2021, she started her own business, supporting researchers individually and in group settings to navigate their professional challenges successfully.