Doctoral defence training
Target group
PhD candidates in the final stages of their doctoral research
Content
Following a long and intensive period of academic work, the doctoral defence represents a highlight in a doctoral candidate’s academic career. Given its significance, however, the defence comes with a variety of concerns and a number of myths. This workshop offers background information, step-by-step practical exercises and practical guidance.
The training prepares participants for the two key components of the doctoral defence: the defensio, i.e. the response to comments from the dissertation reports, and the disputatio, i.e. the scientific presentation of an additional topic followed by a discussion. The focus of the first workshop date is on the defensio, while the second date focuses on a practical presentation training for the disputatio.
The workshop consists of two half-days. While the first date (3.5 hours) will be focussed on the preparation of the defensio, we will practice the scientific presentations (disputatio) on the second date (3.5 hours). For the second date, all participants will prepare a short scientific presentation of no more than 5 minutes as a rehearsal for the defence (topic of your choice, preferably PhD topic). The first date will be held with all participants. For the second date, we will split the group into two groups (morning / afternoon group). For each participant, the workshop therefore consists of a total of half a day on the preparation of the defensio and half a day of presentation practice (in either the morning or afternoon group).
Key topics
- An overview of the doctoral defence
- Rhetorical strategies and conversation techniques for the defence
- Scientific presentation and rhetorical feedback (group 1 / group 2)
- Dealing with critical questions (group 1 / group 2)
Method
- Clear focus on practical application during the PhD defence
- Trainer input: on defensio and disputatio, presentation techniques etc.
- Individual and group exercises
- Practical presentation exercise with structured feedback
- Ensuring transfer to practice, e.g. through individual exercises
Lecturer
Simon Wolf is a certified consultant, trainer, coach and author. As part of his PhD project in general rhetoric, he has gained experience in conference organisation, chairing sessions, delivering presentations and publishing. He has been conducting workshops for PhD students and postdocs for over 15 years.
Dates (via Zoom)
Monday, 26th of October 2026, 14:00 – 17:15
Monday, 9th of November 2026, 1st group 9:00 – 12:30, 2nd group 13:30 – 17:30
Crediting
Creditable as part of ‘individual academic achievements’ (individuelle Studienleistungen) in §4 doctoral regulations (Promotionsordnungen) of the respective research units. Further information on credit transfer can be found on our website ("Anrechnung").
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at info(at)promotionsverband-bw.de.
