Research Essentials

  • Networking Hacks

    How to address a professor in an email

    When writing an email to a professor, it is important to consider the context and the proper way to address them. This can vary depending on the country, the university, and the rank of the professor. When you are unsure about the norms in your context, is always best to choose between the most formal options of “Dear Professor” and “Dear Dr.”. Learn more. Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may…

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  • Networking Hacks

    How to end a professional email in a university setting

    Whether you write an email to your professor, lecturer, lab supervisor, or colleague, knowing how to end a professional email in a university setting is a must. Why? Because it is a crucial part of the academic emailing etiquette. To assist you in your communication via email, here is a compilation of professional email endings, effective sign-offs and email signatures in academic settings. Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn…

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  • Networking HacksFeatured blog post image for simple strategies to network at academic conferences

    Simple strategies to network at academic conferences

    Networking at academic conferences can feel overwhelming. However, when you follow six simple strategies, networking at academic conferences is not as difficult as it may seem. Contents #1 Networking by preparing a good conference presentation#2 Networking by connecting with other conference session or track presenters#3 Networking by joining the conference’s early career activities#4 Networking by connecting with your academic ‘heroes’ during academic conferences#5 Networking by attending the conference dinner#6 Networking by post-conference networking #1 Networking…

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  • Networking HacksFeatured blog post image for The most useful academic social networking sites for PhD students

    The most useful academic social networking sites for PhD students

    A strong network and meaningful connections allow PhD students to get ahead, in and beyond academia. Social networking sites can play an important role in creating such networks. But which (academic) social networking sites are the most useful ones for PhD students? Contents 1. Twitter to reach a large audience2. LinkedIn to grow your professional network3. ORCID ID to showcase your publications4. Google Scholar to tap into the power of Google5. ResearchGate and Academia.edu to…

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  • Networking Hacks

    5 proven ways to become an academic peer reviewer

    Peer reviewing academic work comes with many benefits, including staying up-to-date on the latest research, adding to your academic CV, and developing critical thinking skills. There are several ways to become a peer reviewer, including publishing your own research, networking, asking for help from supervisors, receiving referrals, and reaching out to editors. Contents The benefits of peer reviewing academic work#1 Become a peer reviewer by publishing your own research#2 Become a peer reviewer by networking#3…

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  • Networking HacksFeatured blog post image for Email signatures for PhD students (content, tips and examples)

    Email signatures for PhD students (content, tips and examples)

    A lot of communication in academia occurs via email. Therefore, the power of a concise and effective email signature should not be underestimated. Find out how to create a professional email signature, and what to include, as a PhD student. Contents Why PhD students should have professional email signaturesKey elements to include in email signatures for PhD studentsTips for creating a convincing email signature as a PhD student#1 Know your audience when creating an email…

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  • Academic Skills

    How to organize and structure academic panel discussions

    Panel discussions often appear intimidating, as high-profile events featuring expert discussions at academic conferences. But what precisely are panel discussions, what different types exist, and how can you embark on organizing one yourself? Here is your ultimate guide to understanding, organizing and structuring academic panel discussions, including four example structures and a step-by-step plan to help you get started. Contents What constitutes a panel discussion at an academic conference?Understanding different types of academic panel discussionsHow…

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  • Networking HacksFeatured blog post image for The best email signatures for graduate students (with examples)

    The best email signatures for graduate students (with examples)

    Email signatures facilitate online communication, which is why every graduate student should have one. Learn more about email signatures for graduate students, what (not) to include, and how to create them in Outlook, Gmail and with the help of a template. And have a look at four examples of graduate email signatures for inspiration! Contents The value of email signatures for graduate studentsWhat to include in an email signature as a gradate studentWhat to prevent…

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  • Networking Hacks

    How to network in academia as an introvert (+ 8 actionable tips)

    Networking is a vital aspect of academic success, but it can be a source of concern for introverted individuals. Rather than trying to conform to conventional networking expectations, it’s essential to embrace your introversion and adapt your strategies accordingly. Learn how, including eight actionable tips for introverts when it comes to networking in academia. Contents The importance of networking in academiaThe importance of finding your unique way of networking as an introvert in academiaAcademic networking…

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  • Networking HacksFeatured blog post image for 5 proven ways to find co-authors to collaborate with

    5 proven ways to find co-authors to collaborate with

    Co-authorship can be an efficient (and fun!) way to work on research publications. However, finding a suitable co-author is not always easy. Here are five proven ways to find co-authors to help you get started with your search for academic collaborators. Contents 1. Finding co-authors in your department or lab2. Finding co-authors at conferences3. Finding co-authors through cold-emailing4. Finding co-authors through common connections5. Finding co-authors via #AcademicTwitter 1. Finding co-authors in your department or lab…

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