doctora - Supporting women on their way into science
Networking & Co-Working

Save the dates: Co-Working Sessions 2026!
Since October 2025, we have been offering a monthly co-working and networking format at the Urban Innovation Hub (uih!) in Heilbronn’s city centre. The series is aimed at doctoral researchers affiliated with Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences (HHN). Prospective doctoral candidates who are currently preparing for a PhD are also very welcome to join.
The following dates are scheduled:
- Saturday, 18 April 2026 | 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (hybrid)
- Thursday, 7 May 2026 | 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (hybrid)
- Wednesday, 3 June 2026 | 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (hybrid)
- Thursday, 30 July 2026 | 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (online)
The co-working space on the first floor of the uih! offers a variety of work settings, including individual workstations with monitors, a workshop table, high tables, and a coffee lounge. Drop by, connect with peers, and work in a focused and supportive environment.
If you are interested in participating, please send an enquiry by email to Kristina Epple.



Highlights from past doctora co-working events at uih!
Guidance & Exchange for Doctoral Paths
Confidential conversations for initial orientation and ongoing reflection throughout the PhD journey – independent of academic supervision.
Doctoral Orientation for Prospective Candidates
Are you considering whether a PhD is the right next step for you? In an orientation session, you will gain a structured overview and have space to discuss your individual questions and uncertainties.
- Overview of doctoral pathways and structural frameworks
- Reflection on your motivation and personal fit
- Initial guidance on topic development and exposé writing
- Clarification of questions regarding day-to-day doctoral work
- Understanding expectations and potential challenges

Exchange & Support for Doctoral Candidates
Questions, uncertainties and structural challenges often arise during the PhD process. This offer provides a confidential space for reflection, clarification and exchange – complementing academic supervision.
- Reflection on challenges in day-to-day doctoral work
- Discussion of supervision dynamics and work situations
- Support in structuring and navigating decisions
- Space for uncertainties, doubts or feeling overwhelmed
- Confidential, non-judgemental exchange on equal terms
This offer does not replace academic supervision, but complements it through independent and confidential exchange.
Ursula Ida Lapp-Scholarship
The Ursula Ida Lapp Scholarship supports a female doctoral candidate in the MINT subjects.
Future calls for applications will be announced here.
11 February marks the annual International Day of Women and Girls in Science. This day of action recognises the crucial role of women and girls in science and technology, and aims to encourage, promote and support them.
In this context, the Department for Equity and Diversity would like to highlight the achievements of female scientists at Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences: Female scientists at HHN introduce themselves, provide insight into their work and explain their motivations for pursuing a scientific career.
- Mentoring programme WoMent
- Inclusive Doctoral Studies - A guide on Pursuing a PhD in Germany for Doctoral Students with Health Impairments
- Lakof programme offering for doctoral studies and professorships (in German)
- ‘Datenbank Professorin’ - Database for female academics on their way to becoming professors (in German)
- Scientifica – Portal for women in science and technology in Baden-Württemberg
- Online Writing Lab - Writing techniques and exercises
- ‘Beyond the Glass Ceiling’ Research project on female professors at German universities (in German)
- #innovativeFrauen – platform for female experts (in German)


