This interactive workshop teaches the basics of graphic design and visual communication, specifically for scientists. The workshop aims to improve the ability to analyze and create useful images. Hence, participants learn to think critically about how their individual research output and its visual representation are related and get the opportunity to implement their ideas and techniques right away. The course covers the historical use of images in science and data representation and establishes the fundamental components of visual communication and design theory. Insights into analyzing and creating useful scientific illustrations are provided by looking in more detail into i) tools, ii) typography, iii) color and iv) layout. Participants are encouraged to design a valuable project for upcoming publications or presentations.

About the trainer

Dr. Johannes Richers is a scientist and designer located in Tübingen, Germany. In his work, the self-employed freelance creative combines the fields of science, art and design. He received his academic education from the Technical University of Munich (M.Sc. Chemistry and Dr. rer. nat.), the Technical University in Berlin (2nd M.Sc. in Science Marketing), and the Hasso Plattner Institute in Potsdam (Design Thinking – Basic Track). He was supported by the German National Academic Foundation (Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes), received the ‘SciFinder Future Leader Award’ from the American Chemical Society in 2016, and was selected as ‘Artist in Residence’ at Factory Berlin × Sonar+D in 2019. Jo Richers has designed more than 100 cover pages for scientific journals, has contributed to a range of successfull research grant proposals (incl. ESC, POF, SFB, COE, NCCR) and is eager to share his knowledge in a variety of seminars and workshops.

This interactive workshop will focus on conducting effective informational interviews, a crucial tool for career transitions. Participants will get a chance to practice interview techniques and learn how to gather valuable insights from industry professionals.

About the trainer

Dr. Aggie Branczyk received her PhD from the University of Queensland. Afterwards, she spent 10 years in academia doing quantum research as a Postdoc at the University of Toronto and Teaching Fellow at the Perimeter Institute. She then worked for four years at IBM Quantum and is now building her own company.

For young scientists, the ability to present their research convincingly is essential for engaging in academic discourse and gaining recognition. This seminar provides the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to communicate effectively through language, voice, and body expression. Participants will enhance their speech style and rhetorical presence, improve their expressive abilities for academic presentations, and learn how to train and develop their voice. Practical exercises in body, breath, voice, and speech will help manage stage fright and apply learned techniques to personal pitches. With a mix of theoretical input, hands-on practice, and targeted feedback, participants will refine their communication skills and optimize their speaking performance.

About the trainer

With a background in Speech Communication and Rhetoric (M.A., University of Regensburg) and Speech Therapy (B.A., LMU Munich), Julia Rupprecht combines scientific expertise with practical experience. Her training approach is rooted in evidence-based methods and tailored to individual needs. By asking the right questions and finding the right answers, she helps participants develop effective communication strategies. In a structured and supportive environment, she guides them in exploring and practicing new solutions — with experience, empathy, and clarity.

In this workshop, participants will learn valuable strategies for effective time- and self-

management. By setting priorities and reevaluating personal goals, attendees will be equipped to make the most of their time and personal resources. Through discussions and activities, individuals will gain insights into achieving a better work-life-balance, enhancing mental wellbeing, and ultimately maximizing productivity and success in academic and personal endeavors.

About the trainers

Dr. Silvana Weber is a research associate, trainer, and coach at the LMU Center for Leadership and People Management. She studied Psychology at the University of Göttingen and UC Berkeley and completed her PhD with research stays in Australia and Austria at the University of Koblenz-Landau (2016). She is currently pursuing her habilitation at the University of Würzburg. In addition to her academic work, she gained several years of experience in the startup sector and works as a systemic consultant.

Stefanie Krauth, M.Sc., is a research associate, trainer, and PhD candidate at the LMU Center for Leadership and People Management. She studied Psychology at the University of Vienna, with a focus on Work, Organizational, and Social Psychology during her Master's program. She regularly leads workshops for PhD students and postdocs on topics such as creativity, intercultural leadership, and communication.

Tech. Requirements: Windows Laptop (no Mac OS / Linux), Mouse, min. 4GB RAM, 10GB Disk Space. A dedicated Graphics Card and 8GB + RAM is recommended.

About the Trainer
Christoph Hohmann studied Media Technology at the TH Deggendorf and is working as a media designer for scientific content since 2011 at the LMU München Physics Faculty. His work focuses on visual science communication, through which he has created over 100 cover images for journals such as Nature, Science, or Advanced Materials.