Scientific research projects involve more than good ideas and excellent science. They require clear objectives, effective collaboration, realistic planning, risk management and informed decision-making.

This hands-on workshop introduces practical project management tools and methods tailored to the specific challenges of scientific research. Rather than following the traditional project management phases step by step, the workshop is structured around key questions that arise throughout a research project.

Through practical exercises and realistic scenarios, participants will learn:

• how to define project objectives and deliverables,
• identify and engage stakeholders,
• clarify roles and responsibilities,
• plan activities and milestones,
• manage dependencies and risks,
• develop contingency plans, and
• prioritise tasks effectively.

The workshop is designed for PhD students, Medical Scientists and Clinician Scientists and addresses different types of scientific projects, including PhD projects, grant applications and clinical research projects. Participants can work with the provided scenarios or apply the tools directly to their own research projects. The workshop combines short theoretical inputs with practical exercises, group discussion and reflection, with the aim of enabling participants to apply the methods directly to their own research.

Virginia Bolowski combines strong expertise in research coordination and management with her role as Personal Assistant to the Vice Dean for Budget, Planning and Structure at the University Medical Centre Rostock and her qualification as a Certified Project Management Associate (IPMA® Level D). She is responsible for the project management of the implementation of the “Strategy for Research and Teaching 2030” at the University Medical Centre Rostock. In this role, she coordinates and supports multiple working groups in implementing strategic measures by establishing structured implementation processes, monitoring progress, facilitating communication between stakeholders, and ensuring the successful execution of strategic initiatives.