Boost Your Communication Skills – Essentials for PhD Students
Cluster
Communication Skills
Competences as defined in ResearchComp
ResearchComp is a European competency framework developed by the European Commission. It provides a common reference framework that makes researchers’ competencies more visible and comparable—not only for researchers themselves, but also for universities, employers, and policymakers across Europe.
To get started with ResearchComp, you can consult this guide.
| Competence Area | Competences |
| Cognitive Abilities |
Analytical thinking;Systemic thinking;Problem‑solving;Creativity / innovative thinking; |
| Managing Research | Supervising or mentoring others;Leadership in research settings;Project planning & management;Negotiation and conflict management; |
| Making an Impact | Communicating science to the public;Teaching & delivering training; |
| Working with Others |
Teamwork & collaboration;Networking & professional interaction;Promoting inclusion & diversity;Building mentor–mentee relationships; |
| Self-Management | Career management & development;Lifelong learning;Time management;Self‑organization & planning;Resilience & coping with pressure; |
Target audience
Doctoral candidates
Teacher
Femke Dewulf (Salix Management Services)
Abstract
Unlock your potential with our “Communication Skills Basics” course, tailored for doctoral researchers at Universiteit Gent. This interactive program empowers you to communicate confidently in every direction—within your team, with supervisors, and beyond.
Objectives
- Master the art of effective meetings and clear communication with all stakeholders
- Give and receive feedback, say no, and deliver difficult messages in a constructive, professional way
- Strengthen collaboration and team communication, especially in interdisciplinary and international settings
Dates and venue
| Date | Time | Venue |
| 01/04 + 29/04/2026 | 09:00 - 16:00 | Leslokaal 0.1 (Campus Ledeganck) |
Registration
- Follow this link for the registration and waiting list. We check if you are eligible to participate. Due to limited places, we give priority to PhD students. Your registration will be confirmed by separate e-mail (outlook invite).
- Cancellation of your registration can only be performed by sending an email to doctoralschools@ugent.be.
-
The no show policy applies.
Registration fee
Free of charge for Doctoral School members.
Number of participants
Maximum 12
Language
English
Evaluation method
How We Evaluate:
- Pre-course intake to tailor your learning
- Active participation and reflection
- A personal action plan for real-world impact
- Peer and trainer feedback to support your growth
After successful participation, the Doctoral School Office will add this course to your curriculum of the Doctoral Training Programme in Oasis. Please note that this can take up to one to two months after completion of the course.