Personal development and well-being are often overlooked during a PhD project while humanizing the scientific work environment is of great importance . We were looking for an innovative program that is different from daily science and offers another way of thinking. 

Celina Szanto

Project Manager ITN VAGABOND at Princess Maxima Centre for Pediatric Oncology

Personal development and well-being are often overlooked during a PhD project while humanizing the scientific work environment is of great importance. In fact, as reported by the Nature PhD survey in 2019, 76% of the PhD candidates worked more than 40 hours per week. The survey revealed that only a third of the ESRs suffering from anxiety and depression sought help for their feelings. This outcome was an important reason to integrate focus on self-care and self-awareness in the VAGABOND program, as this can be helpful to tackle stress, mental health, and improve work-life balance. Additionally, it will boost self-awareness, confidence, and professional influence. Celina revealed that VAGABOND discovered BeyondU when they “were looking for an innovative program that is different from daily science and offers another way of thinking”. Initially, VAGABOND planned to create a single day course or workshop. However, Celina realized that this would be insufficient wherefore they extended the program. With the knowledge and expertise of Ingrid the development of personal growth and self-care was integrated in the training program for ESRs. The European Union also acknowledges the importance of incorporating BeyondU in their ITNs to improve employability, innovation, and competitiveness. This resulted in both being granted financial funds for VAGABOND and a successful partnership between VAGABOND and the power of time off.

You can read the whole article on the website of VAGABOND

VAGABOND innovates with personal development for ESRs