YUFE universities are driven by research, but managing a team of researchers is a challenging job. Good leadership is a key ingredient for the success and wellbeing of the team. At YUFE, we believe that good leadership qualities are founded in self-reflection and agency. We encourage staff members to be curious about learning and to continue to improve their own skills. This Research Leadership Programme brings together postdoctoral researchers who are in charge of managing a research team or project and who want to go on a journey of leadership discovery together with YUFE colleagues.

This programme takes place over the course of two months and consists of self-study materials, and two half-day online trainings. Participants are strongly encouraged to network between sessions and after the programme.

The training is designed to provide postdocs with fundamental insights into leading others, both inside and outside academia. You will work on self-awareness in your (potential) leadership role and develop communication skills to coach and guide others. The programme offers practical tools to navigate various situations, develop your leadership identity, and increase your influence.
The approach combines online self-study with interactive group sessions. You will be challenged to actively reflect, practise in small groups, and give and receive feedback. To help you process the information and insights in your preferred way, you can start a new (digital) learning diary or notebook to collect all your insights and action points. There is also the possibility to jot down notes in every module—just click on the gray arrowhead at the left bottom of your screen in each module.

Upon completion, you will have a clearer understanding of your own leadership style, enhanced communication skills, and the ability to lead and collaborate effectively within and beyond the academic context. You will also develop a personal development plan to guide your next career steps. The interactive and practical approach, supported by evidence-based frameworks, ensures you are well-prepared to navigate a variety of leadership situations