PhD Writing Retreat 2027: Flow For Your Thesis

Join the second PhD Writing Retreat offered by the Research Careers Campus!

Your days to focus on writing (Thu, Apr 8 to Sat, Apr 10, 2027)

We invite you to the lush Styrian countryside for three days! Focus on your writing while staying sane, enjoying the community of other researchers and being/moving in nature. 

The retreat is designed to help you get into deep, focused work, without distractions. Each day includes quiet writing slots, and space to breathe. You won’t have to worry about anything else: no emails, no meetings, no errands. Just time to write.

You’ll also have the chance to get support if you need it - whether you're stuck, unsure how to start, or want feedback. Many participants are surprised by how much they get done - and how enjoyable writing can feel in this setting. Plus, it's a great opportunity to connect with fellow PhD candidates and share the ups and downs of the research journey.

The retreat is facilitated by an expert in academic writing and productivity, and consists of a melange of focused work, voluntary exercise and leisure. The language will be a mix of English and German.

TARGET GROUP:

• All PhD candidates enrolled in a PhD at the University of Graz at the time of the retreat

COSTS:

• This event is free of charge for registered participants, all costs will be covered by RCC!

TIME SCHEDULE: 

• Participants take the train together to the retreat location (ca. 10:30am), the retreat starts with a lunch. The programme finishes on Saturday at 5pm, and participants can take the train home to Graz together.
• The detailed programme depends on the wishes of participants and is provided in late January.

REGISTRATION PROCESS: 

• There are 15 spots available, registration is on a first come first serve basis. You will receive a confirmation email explaining the next steps.
• The registration window is open between Tuesday, December 1, 8am and Thursday, December 10, 2026.
• Apply via email to rcc(at)uni-graz.at, answering the following question: What part of your thesis, which paper, or which grant proposal are you planning to work on during the retreat? (the retreat is about actual writing, not data analysis)
• The registration is confirmed once a) employees of the University of Graz have submitted an electronic travel application, or b) students have provided proof of ongoing enrollment (Inskriptionsbestätigung or letter from supervisor).

CONDITIONS OF PARTICIPATION:

• If you sign up, you need to make time for the mandatory preparation meeting on Wednesday, January 27, 2027 11am (in-person in Leechgasse 42, ground floor & online).
• If you don't show up to the retreat without giving advance notice, we will have to bill you for the costs of room and board.

ACOMMODATION, COMPANIONS, FOOD, WRITING SET-UP: 

• The location is the JUFA Hotel Deutschlandsberg***. Accommodation is in large single-occupant rooms. For writing, you get a standard desk, chair, and plug socket, bring a pillow for more comfort! Three fresh, local buffet-style meals a day are provided. Coffee is available at breakfast, additional hot and cold drinks can be purchased from staff. Participants contact JUFA directly in case of specific dietary requirements.

FACILITATOR: 

• Dr. Gayannée Kedia is a social psychology and neuroscience researcher and entrepreneur. She holds degrees in biology and psychology and has worked at several top universities in France, the UK, Germany, and Austria. Alongside her research career, she has spent many years supporting researchers as a writing coach. She is the founder of Inkoo.ai, a startup dedicated to helping researchers work smarter and communicate better.