Date: November 27, 2025
Format: On-site workshop, City Center Campus, 8.30–17.00
Description: This practical training provides a solid foundation for developing strong third-party funding applications, with a particular focus on programmes offered by the DFG and the European Commission (e.g. ERC), transferable to other (inter-) national funders. Participants learn how to strategically select suitable funding schemes and craft key application sections (e.g. abstract, aims, objectives, research design, implementation, and budget) in line with both formal and content-related requirements.
A central focus is placed on the perspective of funders and reviewers: participants gain insight into the evaluation process and learn how to tailor proposals to the logic, expectations, and reading behaviour of reviewers.
Through hands-on exercises, participants learn how to develop their funding idea and tailor it to the objectives of a selected funding programme. Individual and group exercises help participants not only to structure their applications in line with the requirements of the funding agency, but also to write applications that reflect the reading habits of the reviewers.
Methods: Short lectures, group discussions, individual exercises, practical tools, and trainer feedback
Objectives: Participants will learn to:
Position proposal writing as a tool for career development
Align their research idea with the objectives of a targeted funding body
Structure and design each section of a funding proposal
Communicate relevance and impact effectively
Understand and address the expectations of reviewers
Navigate formalities, timelines, and deadlines professionally
Trainer: Dr. Susanne Hollmann (CEO) is a natural scientist with a doctorate in biochemistry. She is a licensed career development coach. Susanne has written and advised on more than 200 applications and works as an evaluator and ethics advisor for various funding agencies. She has been involved in the founding of several companies, including SB Science Management in 2014.
Dr. Christiane Hollmann (Senior partner) is a biologist with a doctorate in molecular biology and many years of experience in medical affairs, clinical development and project management. She supports scientists and companies in the strategic development of projects and funding applications. With her experience in industry and research, Christiane combines scientific expertise with practical advice.
Registration & Deadlines:
- Participation in the entire workshop is mandatory! Please only register if you can attend the entire workshop by filing our registration form.
- Registration closes 1 week before a workshop starts.
Interested in learning more? Check out our other postdoc events!