Who is working with the principles of transparent and reproducible science and interdisciplinarity? We're back with our collegiality showcase, to highlight Alina Herderich's work, in advocating for early career researchers, and much more!
Alina Herderich is part of University of Graz since January 2025 (since July as a postdoctoral researcher), and works within the IDea Lab, the Interdisciplinary Digital Lab at the University of Graz (in the group Data Analysis with Jana Lasser) - you can explore Alina's website here. Here are three answers to our three questions.
1) Which activities for contributing to a positive research environment are most important in your view, and what is your personal contribution to this cause?
I live by the principle: "Foster change where change can happen." Early career researchers often do not have the power or the means to make change happen fast, but there are still ways in which we can advocate for ourselves. For instance, we can join one of the many committees that govern research and teaching at the university.
During my PhD, I was a member of the PhD Union at Graz University of Technology for three years. The PhD Union is the legal student representation of all PhD students at the university. Among other things, I led two main projects during my time in the union.
Fueled by the discussion around study durations and dropout rates, the PhD Union realized that we did not have solid data to engage in this discussion on an evidentiary basis. We further did not want to rely on other university bodies to provide us with this data. We therefore decided to design and conduct the "PhD Survey," a survey assessing students' attitudes around supervision, teaching, and well-being, among others. In fact, the results are out by now and have sparked great interest not only among the students but also among the leadership of the university.
In the PhD Union, we are also confronted with serious problems from time to time. In particular, we had multiple complaints about harassment. Although we are not the ones to implement measures to mitigate those problems, we decided to support our fellow students by issuing an official statement with our PhD students' perspective, including suggestions for possible solutions.
I also want to take the opportunity to point out that those projects can be really time-consuming, and not everyone has the resources to pursue this engagement. I think that people in favorable circumstances (e.g., stable contracts, good work environment) have a special responsibility to advocate for those who are in a less favorable position.
As for future endeavors, you might soon see me in the scientific works council as the only university assistant with a doctorate. I also volunteered to be a diversity buddy. These are regular employees at the university who can be approached with concerns around diversity and who are equipped to help solve these concerns. Very much looking forward!
2) What do you personally get out of your engagement with it?
First and foremost, when engaging in university committees, you will get an in-depth understanding of the inner workings of a university in a way that is hard to grasp otherwise. Apart from altruistic motivations, I am convinced that this will also help you in your future career. You will get to network and meet people from other cohorts and subjects, which I always find very enriching and possibly very useful. Finally, it's very easy to succumb to the grind in research. There is always a lot more to do than you can possibly accomplish, but broadening your viewpoint with voluntary work injects a deeper sense of meaning into what you do.
3) What would you suggest to others who want to take first steps for becoming active in co-creating their working environment?
First, reflect on what is easy for you to give. This could be anything from organizing a journal club in your primary research group to becoming a diversity buddy. Second, find your tribe. There are so many groups and committees at the university that are often looking for motivated members.
Thanks a lot, Alina Herderich, for being open to become part of our collegiality showcase!
The Research Careers Campus Graz showcases people and networks which shape our research environment here in Graz - towards a more collegial, friendly and diverse academia, where all research talents can thrive. More here.
Picture credit: Herderich, privat.
Interview: Johanna Stadlbauer, RCC, 11.11.2025