doctora - Supporting women on their way into science

doctora is a project within the Professorinnenprogramm 2030 and is affiliated with the Department for Equity and Diversity at Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences. Its aim is to support and connect women pursuing a career in academia.

To this end, doctora offers a range of formats, including guidance on doctoral orientation and support throughout the doctoral journey, workshops, networking opportunities, co-working formats, and small individual financial grants.

Networking & Co-Working

Innovation Lounge

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:

  • 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

Doktorandinnen an einem Konferenztisch bei der Arbeit

Guidance & Exchange for Doctoral Paths

Confidential conversations for initial orientation and ongoing reflection throughout the PhD journey – independent of academic supervision.

junge Frau spricht mit Studienberaterin

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
Zwei Frauen im Austausch

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.