The Bahrenfeld campus recently hosted the first edition of the Postdoc Welcome Night, an event organized by PIER – Partnership of Universität Hamburg and DESY, together with the MIN Graduate Center. The evening welcomed postdocs from a wide range of research clusters including the University of Hamburg, Cluster of Excellence Quantum Universe, CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter, CLICCS, and DESY, creating a vibrant space for career reflection, networking, and shared experiences.

Following a warm introduction to the support structures provided by the MIN Faculty and PIER, postdocs split into two interactive mini-workshops designed to address a central theme in their professional lives: career development.

In the “Career Paths within Academia” workshop, Prof. Dr. Annette Eschenbach and Prof. Dr. Eliza Schaum joined postdocs for a round table discussion in an informal setting. This open format encouraged participants to engage freely with the speakers, share personal concerns and aspirations, and gain first-hand insight into navigating academic career trajectories.

Meanwhile, the “Career Paths Outside of Academia” session featured a talk by Anne Schreiter, Ph.D. from the Guidance, Skills and Opportunities (GSO). Schreiter offered practical advice tailored to scientists looking to transition beyond academia, including strategies for identifying transferable skills and exploring roles in industry and public sector, amongst others.

The evening concluded with relaxed networking over snacks and drinks, providing a welcome opportunity for participants to connect informally, exchange experiences, and build community.

Thanks go to all our special guests who made the evening a success, especially QU postdoc rep Thorben Schmirander, Friederike Eickhoff (she/her) from COAST and HAPN, postdoc rep Max Kellermeier, and Lizzy Harmstorf from the Startup Office.