Network: First Generation Docs Connect

• Tuesday, 02 June 2026

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Peer network for doctoral researchers from non-academic families

“Are your parents academics?” The answer to this question has a high impact on education and academic careers. Consequently, family background as a dimension of diversity has gained attention throughout the last years.

Doctoral researchers with a non-academic family background are in a special situation. Our aim is to support and connect them. “First Generation Docs Connect” will create a framework to share experiences, exchange advice, point out how certain problem are structural rather than individual, enhance visibility of the subject, inform about support options, and build a durable peer network.

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Founding Event 

When: June 02, 4pm-7pm

Where: Beach Mitte, Caroline-Michaelis-Str. 8, 10115 Berlin

Registration: Registration is open: click here! The registration system is hosted by the Dahlem Research School.

Invited guests with non-academic family backgrounds will share their personal experiences, discuss available support options, and answer your questions. The event offers space to share experiences, build connections, and learn about support opportunities for first-generation doctoral researchers. Anyone interested can join a network and help develop it. All this is taking place in Beach Mitte. Dip your toes into the sand and connect.

Program: 

4-5 pm	Panel discussion: Pursuing a doctorate as a first-generation academic Clara Gutjahr, first-gen doctorate student at TU Berlin, volunteer for Arbeiterkind.de (Arbeitskreis Promotion) Lito Kyriakidou, first-gen doctorate student at FU Berlin Raphaël Létourneau, first-gen doctorate student at FU Berlin Prof. Dr. Monika Huesmann, first-gen professor at HWR Berlin
5-5:15 pm	Break
5:15-6 pm	Interactive Session (World Cafe) Collecting and sharing experiences, ressources, issues and ideas
6-6:15	Break
6:15-6:45 pm	Forming the network Planning the network, communication, events and ideas
6:45-7 pm	Closing session
from 7 pm	Individual get-together, play beach volleyball, have drinks, meet & discuss

Language:

The panel discussion will be held in English. Questions and discussions are welcome in English and in German. The interactive part will be organized in English and German groups.

Costs:

Participation is free of charge. Beverages and snacks will be provided during the official part. Who wants to stay longer and (e.g.) play volleyball, should bring their own water or buy their own drinks in the café on the grounds.

Participants:

First Generation Docs Connect is designed for doctoral researchers with a non-academic family background. 

Inclusion:

We are ready to support our participants regarding child care, accessibility, and other issues. Don’t hesitate to reach out.

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Get involved! 

Set the agenda of the network, come up with ideas for further events, form a support group of peers, and more! If you are interested in taking an active role in the network, please contact us.