This summer, we're all about making space in your work life for those things YOU consider a priority. So we've asked our University of Graz researcher community about aspects of their daily work life that they have developed a useful routine for - and aspects that still need a “research life hack”.
Interview partner:
David Weiss' daily work:
“I am a doctoral researcher in translation studies at the University of Graz, working on translation and interpreting in human-rights-relevant contexts (courts, police, public services).”
The "happy hack" that makes David more efficient/creative/motivated at work:
"Regular location changes, especially for writing. My best writing environment? Here and there (office, home, coffee shops, …)! I’m also very productive when working at unusual hours, especially late at night, and while listening to Green Noise playlists."
And the challenge in his research life that he still needs a hack for:
"Staying calm and focused on one thing at a time, even though other things are in the pipeline. I often get nervous and distracted when waiting (too long) for feedback or responses from publishers, editors, grant applications, etc. Also: not always falling into the last-minute trap!"
What is your own happy hack? Let us know!
Find the full series of interviews here: How to hack your research life - Research Careers Campus Graz
(Interview: Johanna Stadlbauer, 30.6.2026, picture credit: Weiss, privat)