Social media format "Greetings from Abroad"
Many doctoral candidates at TUM take the opportunity to spend time abroad – whether teaching and conducting research at partner institutions or presenting their findings at international conferences. These experiences not only enrich their academic journey but also foster valuable connections with researchers around the world.
To highlight the incredible opportunities available during a doctorate at TUM and to increase the visibility of these international stays, we’ve launched the social media series “Greetings from Abroad.” This format showcases the diverse and inspiring experiences of our doctoral researchers across the globe.
📬 Greetings from Abroad: Sweden Edition with Sonia
This summer, Sonia Darvishi, a doctoral candidate at the Chair of Neurological Clinic and Policlinic (TUM School of Medicine and Health), spent a month at the Karolinska Institute in Sweden. Her research stay offered a unique opportunity to collaborate internationally, explore new scientific perspectives, and immerse herself in a vibrant academic environment.
Captured in snapshots – from presentations to teamwork – Sonia’s experience reflects the value of stepping beyond borders during the doctoral journey.
She shares: “I’ve learned that being open, collaborative, and willing to learn from others makes research more meaningful, enjoyable, and effective.”
Curious about going abroad during your doctorate? Discover international mobility options at the TUM Graduate School for doctoral candidates: Internationalization - TUM Graduate School
📬 Greetings from Abroad: Japan Edition with Christina
We are happy to share another postcard from the archive featuring Christina Dollinger, a doctoral candidate from the Chair of Ecosystem Dynamics and Forest Management in Mountain Landscapes (TUM School of Life Sciences).
Last year, Christina spent two months in Japan. First, she did her research at the University of Tokyo, and later she conducted field work in the Shiretoko National Park.
Looking back at this experience, she says: “I loved living and working in Tokyo! The city itself is amazing of course, but especially my Japanese colleagues at the University of Tokyo made the experience unforgettable. I feel very lucky to be able to work with people like them. Science only works when we share our expertise across borders, cultures, and languages.”
📬 Greetings from Abroad: Australia Edition with Regina
We have just received another “postcard” from the other side of the world: Regina Eckhardt, a doctoral candidate at the Chair of Agricultural Systems Engineering, sends greetings from Down Under. She is spending 12 months in Brisbane as part of the TUM-UQ Joint Supervision Program, conducting research at both the The University of Queensland and the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO).
Regina will also be joining us live from Australia as a speaker at our upcoming online info event: “Internationalize your Doctorate” on Tuesday, 27 May from 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. She’ll talk about her research journey, how she organized it, and what it’s like to live and work abroad during your doctorate.
📬 Greetings from Abroad: South Africa Edition with Stuart
We’re excited to share a glimpse into Stuart Daniel James's four-week research stay in South Africa from November 2024! His “postcard” captures both academic and personal moments - offering a vivid snapshot of what it’s like to live and work abroad as a researcher.
“My four-week research stay at Stellenbosch University was both professionally and personally enriching. From deep work on my dissertation and exploring bush encroachment as a biomass source, to presenting at a conference and building international collaborations – the experience was packed with insights. I return with new knowledge, valuable connections and fresh momentum for the next steps in my research.”
- Stuart Daniel James
Stuart will also be joining us as a speaker at our upcoming online info event, “Internationalize your Doctorate” next Tuesday, 27 May. He’ll share his experiences, lessons learned, and practical advice on making the most of international research opportunities during your doctorate.