The goal of the project, which started in January 2026, is to develop resources that directly address the challenges and opportunities that tenure-track holders may encounter. The University of Graz takes trends such as the establishment of 'R3 contact points' in Germany, as well as cross-university offerings for 'mid-career researchers' in the UK, as an opportunity to analyze the structures for optimal potential development for tenure-track holders and, based on this, to optimize its own offerings.
The target group consists of researchers who have established an independent research profile and gained institutional recognition, and who are in critical transition phases of their careers. The initial focus is on senior scientists with development agreements and assistant professors with qualification agreements. The first step involves a needs assessment and process mapping, which is expected to be completed by autumn 2026. Offers are already being developed, tested, and evaluated alongside.
Existing offers within the RCC for those in career position contracts:
Expert talks on subjects such as negotiating, setting priorities, and more
Micro Grants (up to 2000 € to support fulfillment of activities laid out in the tenure-track agreements)
Newsletter, monthly (register at rcc@uni-graz.at)
Three-day guided writing retreat in Deutschlandsberg in September, "Supervise & Lead" retreat in February
Access to the wide range of RCC offers, like personal consultations, peer networking (writing groups, supervisor network), training, and events
Information on the needs analysis starting in early 2026:
Conducted by Katharina Pertschy. Rooted in her primary profession of social work and with expertise in social management, Katharina Pertschy combines many years of practical experience with a diploma in supervision, coaching, and organizational development. More information about her on LinkedIn, and here.
Timeline 2026: Jan: Kickoff international Best Practice analysis; Feb: Kickoff assessment of researchers' needs; Feb-Nov ’26: bundling and mapping knowledge gained; Kickoff Apr '26: designing and testing resources.
Studies on the topic which are relevant for the project:
2025: Vitae (UK): Culture, Employment and Development of Academic Researchers Survey (CEDARS) - Vitae
2024: E. Pekkola & T. Siekinnen: Tenure Tracks in European Universities: Managing Careers in Academia
2023: K. Pickard-Smith et al: RAIL: A model for keeping the academic Mid-career on track
2023: Flinders, M: Strategic scaffolding: Supporting mid-career and senior research leaders in the social sciences
Contact:
Johanna Stadlbauer (Head of the Research Careers Campus), Katharina Pertschy (project coordinator): rcc@uni-graz.at
