Our PhD advisors have developed a variety of workshops that can be requested for organized PhD research days, events, or department sessions (for groups of 8-40 PhD candidates).

Workshops are offered free of charge for internal Amsterdam UMC PhD events (e.g. PhD retreats or events organised for Amsterdam UMC PhD candidates).

For external events (i.e. organised for PhD candidates outside Amsterdam UMC), the fee is €550 per 1.5-hour workshop (including VAT and travel expenses).

For more information or to request a workshop, please email phdadvisor@amsterdamumc.nl.

Available workshops:

Unmasking the Imposter

“I can’t do a PhD! Who am I kidding? Soon they’ll find out I’m a fraud…”

Do you recognize these thoughts? You are not alone! Many PhD candidates experience Imposter Syndrome. In this workshop, you will learn about the definition of Imposter Syndrome and explore several psychological frameworks that explain why these thoughts and feelings arise. Through practical exercises, you will discover healthy and sustainable ways to cope with Imposter Syndrome—empowering you to transform your PhD journey into an experience of greater confidence, self-acceptance, and personal growth.

Intercultural Communication
In this interactive workshop on Intercultural Communication, PhD candidates will explore the key dimensions of intercultural interactions and learn how to analyze various situations from an intercultural perspective. The workshop will cover topics such as the differences between high- and low-context cultures and provide practical strategies for effectively navigating cultural differences. Participants will also receive tips and techniques to enhance their communication skills in diverse academic and professional environments, equipping them with the tools to build stronger and more effective cross-cultural relationships.
Handling Doubt & Making Choices
Doubt is a natural part of the academic journey—whether it arises as uncertainty about your research progress or as dilemmas when choosing between different paths forward. In this interactive workshop, we will explore how to navigate doubt and decision-making with greater clarity, confidence, and balance. Through practical exercises using real examples from your own research or life, you will learn how to reframe doubt not as a barrier, but as an opportunity for growth. You will leave the session with practical tools to make decisions in the face of uncertainty and to find direction even when the way forward is not yet clear.
Assertive Communication & Setting Boundaries
In this workshop on Assertive Communication and Setting Boundaries, participants will learn how to express themselves confidently and respectfully while maintaining healthy boundaries in both professional and personal contexts. The session will cover essential topics such as the principles of assertiveness, strategies for setting and communicating boundaries, and techniques for managing challenging interactions.
    • Coming up in 2026: Navigating Conflict with Confidence
    • Coming up in 2026: Self-Awareness: Aligning Personality, Values, Life Story & Goal