Overview

“Step Forward” is a developmental journey designed to support researchers in reflecting on their professional path, defining what success means to them, and creating a personalized career development map. The program combines reflection, peer learning, and practical planning to help participants identify their next steps and take ownership of their growth.
Rather than viewing career planning as a linear process, “Step Forward” invites participants to see their careers as evolving journeys. Through guided exercises, conversations, and follow-ups, they will gain clarity on their values, motivations, and priorities — and translate this understanding into a tangible and actionable development plan.

This workshop is co-organized by the Training and Career Office and the TwinDEEPS project. TwinDEEPS aims to support researcher’s in enhancing their research profile and excellence by strengthening their professional development and strategic career planning

Target Audience
CIIMAR’s Postdoctoral fellows interested in reflecting on their career trajectory and setting meaningful development goals.

Format
The program consists of four components designed to foster reflection, commitment, and accountability:

1. Pre-workshop online session (2 Feb, 14-15h, online)
   Introduction to the concept of a career map and the importance of intentional career development. Participants begin reflecting on their strengths, values, and current position in their journey.
2. Workshop (19 Feb, 13h30-17h30), in person)
   Interactive activities, peer discussions, and guided reflections to help participants identify what success means to them, explore different paths, and draft their initial development map.
3. Follow-up 1 (~1 month later, 16 Mar, 13h30-14h30 online)
   Sharing progress, discussing challenges, and revisiting priorities. Participants refine their goals and actions.
4. Follow-up 2 (~3 months later, 4 May, 13h30-14h30 online)
   Reflection on achievements and learning. Participants present their updated maps and next steps.

Learning Outcomes
By the end of the program, participants will:

• Reflect on their personal and professional values, motivations, and definitions of success.
• Identify their current position in their career journey and envision possible directions.
• Translate their reflections into a concrete and realistic development plan with actionable steps.
• Strengthen their sense of ownership and agency over their career path.
• Engage in constructive peer exchange and build accountability within a supportive community.

Methodology
The workshop uses a mix of individual reflection, small-group discussions, and interactive exercises inspired by coaching and mentoring practices. It emphasizes self-awareness, goal setting, and practical planning while fostering a safe and inspiring space for dialogue.

Expected Outcomes
By the end of “Step Forward,” participants will have:

• A clear, personalized career development map;
• Greater clarity on their values and priorities;
• Increased confidence to make informed career choices;
• A network of peers supporting their ongoing development.

Facilitator
Inês Crisóstomo works at the Gender Equality Office of the University of Luxembourg, where she coordinates the implementation of multiple programs aimed at fostering equitable career development. Her mission is to support individuals and teams in realizing their full potential. As a dedicated advocate for research environments that nurture both people and scientific advancement, she is committed to promoting mentoring culture and collaborative learning across academia.
Internationally, Inês is frequently invited to consult on mentoring and researcher development programs, and actively participates in professional networks and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities to ensure her work remains aligned with best practices in inclusive academic development.
She holds a PhD in Biology from ITQB-Nova Lisboa, with research conducted at The Rockefeller University in New York. Her expertise in scientific training and mentoring has been shaped through roles at leading international research institutes, including GiMM (Lisbon, Portugal) and the Vienna BioCenter (Vienna, Austria).

Registrations here until December 17th 2025.

Any doubts please contact the training office.