Networking Event for PhDs and PostDocs

As in previous years, a dedicated networking event for early-career researchers will be held in conjunction with the 4S Annual Conference. The event is designed for PhD students and postdoctoral fellows in the field of sport, exercise and health science and aims to provide a platform for exchange, collaboration and professional development. It offers young scientists the opportunity to build meaningful connections and expand their academic networks. While similar initiatives are well established in other countries, this event seeks to further strengthen this culture in Switzerland and contributes to a vibrant and sustainable sport science community.

The event will take place in Basel on Tuesday 9 February 2027, the day prior to the 4S Annual Conference. The registration fee for participation in the networking event is CHF 20.- and includes dinner (overnight accommodation is not included).

Specific workshop programme:

What does mental balance have to do with surfing? Setting boundaries, managing stress, and navigating PhD life

PhD life is characterised by constantly changing periods of intense concentration, time pressure, setbacks, and moments of success. Much of this is beyond our direct control. Just like in surfing, we cannot control the waves – but we can learn to read them, maintain our balance, and get back up after a fall. In doing so, we can learn to put challenging situations into perspective and respond to them more consciously using appropriate strategies.

This workshop provides a brief introduction to what actually happens when we experience stress. The focus is on how we deal with challenging periods in our own lives: How can we better understand stress, identify our personal stressors and early warning signs, and actively shape the way we respond to them? We will explore practical strategies that can help us stay healthy and perform effectively even during demanding periods.

Alongside brief theoretical inputs, the workshop offers opportunities for practical exercises and the exchange of experiences, allowing participants to apply the tools and strategies directly to their everyday PhD life.

Networking event schedule:

14.00-14.30:   Welcome and introduction to networking event for PhD students and PostDocs (seminar room 01, DSBG)

14.30-17.30:   Workshop on mental balance (seminar room 01, DSBG)

17.30-17.45:   Short break

17.45-18.15:  Yoga and breathing meditation (multipurpose hall, DSBG)

From 19.00:   Dinner in Basel

The workshop is organised and delivered by SalutaCoach AG, Aeschenplatz 6, 4052 Basel | 0800 190 190 | info@cluttersalutacoach.ch | www.salutacoach.ch. SalutaCoach AG is a spin-off of the University of Basel.