PhD Writing Retreat: Flow For Your Thesis

Join the first-ever PhD Writing Retreat offered by the Research Careers Campus!

Your days to focus on writing (Thu, Apr 9 to Sat, Apr 11, 2026)

We invite you to the lush Styrian countryside for three days! Focus on your writing while staying sane, enjoying the community of other researchers and being/moving in nature. 

The retreat is designed to help you get into deep, focused work, without distractions. Each day includes quiet writing slots, and space to breathe. You won’t have to worry about anything else: no emails, no meetings, no errands. Just time to write.

You’ll also have the chance to get support if you need it — whether you're stuck, unsure how to start, or want feedback. Many participants are surprised by how much they get done — and how enjoyable writing can feel in this setting. Plus, it's a great opportunity to connect with fellow PhD candidates and share the ups and downs of the research journey.

The retreat is facilitated by an expert in academic writing and productivity, and consists of a melange of focussed work, voluntary exercise and leisure. The language will be a mix of English and German.

TARGET GROUP:

• All PhD candidates enrolled in a PhD at the University of Graz at the time of the retreat

TIME SCHEDULE: 

• Participants take the train together to the retreat location (ca. 10:30am), the retreat starts with a lunch. The programme finishes on Saturday at 5pm, and participants can take the train home to Graz together.
• The detailed programme depends on the wishes of participants and is provided in late January.

REGISTRATION: 

• There are 15 spots available, registration is on a first come first serve basis. The registration window is open between Tuesday, December 2, 8am and Wednesday, Dec 16, 2026 via email to rcc(at)uni-graz.at. If you sign up, you need to make time for the mandatory preparation meeting at the end of January 2026 (in-person in Leechgasse 42, ground floor & online).
• After we confirm your place, employees of the University of Graz need to submit an electronic travel application, students need to give proof of ongoing enrollment (Inskriptionsbestätigung or letter from supervisor).
• If you don't show up without giving advance notice, we will have to bill you for the costs of room and board.

ACOMMODATION, COMPANIONS, FOOD, WRITING SET-UP: 

• The location will be announced shortly. 

FACILITATOR: 

• Dr. Gayannée Kedia is a researcher and teacher in social psychology and neuroscience at the Karl-Franzens University of Graz, Austria. She has degrees in biology and psychology and has worked for several universities in France, the UK, Germany, and Austria. Parallel to her academic activity, she works as a writing coach. She is also the founder of abrilliantmind.blog, a blog aimed at helping scientists be more productive and happier in their professional activity.