Beatenberg, Switzerland

Beyond the Lab: Addressing Global Challanges as Scientists

The world is grappling with complex challenges, from climate change to public health and the emergence of AI, all of which place scientists at the forefront of the search for solutions. As early-career scientists, we question how we can make an impact in these challenges within and outside of our research.

Join us for a 2024 summer school from June 25-28, funded by the ETH Domain, which is designed to equip you with the actionable skills necessary to take on such global challenges effectively. We bring together perspectives from academia, industry, policymakers, and other stakeholders, to explore the myriad of ways in which science can influence public decisions and how to face the challenges associated with taking action.

You can look forward to:
- engaging discussions with a cohort of doctoral students interested in these topics
- networking opportunities to meet professionals at this intersection
- hands-on practical workshops such as crafting a policy brief and negotiation simulations
- beautiful landscape vistas and optional social activities

The course is limited to 30 students and a maximum of 10 participants will be selected from outside the ETH domain as required by our funding structure.

Please contact us at beyondthelab@epfl.ch for more information.

Target group

We welcome PhD students from all disciplines though the program will be tailored to an audience of natural sciences and engineering doctoral students. We encourage to apply all those dedicated to science communication with an interest to incorporate considerations of societal impact into their research.

Credits info

2 EC
If you are a PhD student enrolled in an EPFL or ETHZ doctoral program, you can obtain 2 ECTS. For course information see the EPFL coursebook page or the ETHZ coursebook page.

Credits can be granted to participants who:
- Paid their participation fees
- Followed the entire summer school
- Passed the final examination (negotiation simulation and preparation of a written communication piece)

If you are a doctoral student at a different University/Institute, it is possible to obtain ECTS as well, however, you have to make arrangements with your doctoral program.

Fee info

CHF 150: For all PhD students.

The registration fee includes housing and meals from Tuesday to Friday (lunch from Tuesday to Friday, dinners from Tuesday to Thursday, breakfasts from Wednesday to Friday, coffee breaks and apéros).

Scholarships

Travel grants may be provided for those who are accepted and qualify, on a need-basis.