Many doctoral students face similar challenges—especially those who have recently moved to Vienna and joined TU Wien to pursue their doctoral studies. They are active in different research groups, which makes it difficult for them to exchange ideas and be accessible as a group. To counteract this, Student Support, HR Development, the International Welcome Engagement Center, the Doctoral Center, and the Fachschaft Doktorat (Doctoral Student Council) have jointly developed the new format of the “Doctoral Stammtisch”.
“We want to establish simple, low-threshold contact with doctoral students and draw their attention to our support services at the doctoral Stammtisch,” explains Christoph Brunner, Head of Student Support. His colleague Lisa Vrablicz adds: “In my psychology consultations, I see how important networking and mutual support are for the well-being of doctoral students – the regulars' table offers exactly that.”
Four dates are planned for the winter semester 2025/26. Representatives from various support services will be available to answer questions and hold personal discussions.
“TU Wien is proud to host over 5,000 international students, many of whom are pursuing doctoral degrees. With the Stammtisch, we are creating a platform where international and local doctoral students can meet, share experiences, and become part of a vibrant community,” says Kyle Schmude from the International Welcome Engagement Center.
Stefanie Madsen from HR Development also emphasizes the added value: “The Doctoral Stammtisch offers a valuable opportunity to exchange experiences and challenges during the doctoral phase and to build a supportive environment. Especially for those who are new to TU Wien and Vienna, it makes it easier to settle into the community.”
Ioanna Giouroudi is head of the Doctoral Center and sees creating opportunities for networking as one of her core tasks: “The Stammtisch promotes exchange between disciplines and mutual learning. This significantly strengthens the doctoral culture at TU Wien.”
The Fachschaft Doktorat, opens an external URL in a new window supports the new format as well: “We are delighted that TU Wien is specifically creating spaces for people to meet and support each other. The Stammtisch is a great opportunity to get talking to each other and find out more about the advisory services available,” says Thomas Kolb.
Dates “Doctoral Stammtisch” for the winter semester 2025/26
- October 22, 2025
- November 12, 2025
- December 17, 2025
- January 21, 2025
5-7 p.m., room AA 03 - 1 - CEE
Interested doctoral students are welcome to drop by; registration for the Stammtisch is not necessary.