Each year, the Graduate School hosts the PhD Research Exchange Day, bringing together all doctoral researchers to present and discuss their research. PhD students showcase their work through poster presentations, gaining valuable feedback from the BIFOLD research community. The event provides ample opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge exchange, fostering an environment that encourages interdisciplinary interaction and the creation of new research partnerships. Workshops and discussion sessions enhance skill development, offering students insights that directly support their research and career progression.

BIFOLD provides students with unique opportunities to bridge the gap between academic research and industry applications through a variety of events aimed at fostering dialogue and collaboration. Our events facilitate the transfer of cutting-edge Data Management and Machine Learning techniques into real-world industrial environments, enabling participants to see the practical impact of their work.

Through talks by invited industry experts, students gain valuable insights into the latest Data Science applications across diverse sectors, from technology to healthcare, finance, and more. These events offer participants a chance to understand the challenges faced by industry professionals and how their academic knowledge can be applied to solve these issues, providing a deeper understanding of real-world applications.

We organize Industrial Fairs, where young researchers have the opportunity to meet and network with representatives from leading companies. These fairs serve as a launchpad for building professional connections that can lead to internships, collaborations, and career opportunities. Students not only showcase their research and skills, but also receive direct feedback from potential employers, helping them to refine their career strategies and gain insight into the skills that are in high demand in the job market.

By participating in these events, students enhance their networking capabilities, expand their career horizons, and gain practical perspectives that complement their academic development, preparing them to make a tangible impact in both academia and industry.

Our annual Summer School brings together BIFOLD members, invited experts, and external PhD students to build a national and international research network around relevant topics within the scope of BIFOLD research. With keynotes, lectures, and hands-on practical workshops led by internal and external specialists, participants gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills in emerging fields. Working in interdisciplinary teams, students engage in collaborative research questions that broaden their perspectives and foster innovative problem-solving.

The 5-day event is jointly organized with partner organizations and held in a vibrant setting in Berlin. It offers a unique environment for peer learning and networking, ensuring that participants return with fresh ideas and valuable connections for their future careers. Doctoral students are also encouraged to propose topics and formats, giving them a direct role in shaping the event's focus.

More details on Summer School.

• Personal competencies: Our training program includes among others training in science communication, speaking and presentation skills, video production and networking. Participants gain the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively and build professional connections. The training also covers broader topics relevant to academia, industry, and society, such as good scientific practice, gender awareness, and public outreach, ensuring that students develop a well-rounded skill set. Language courses in English and German (e.g., German for beginners) are also available at TU Berlin to help students thrive in international research environments.
• Research skills, research management & funding: Early-career researchers gain a deeper understanding of the broader research context, including legal, ethical, and social implications of information technologies. Training in project management, academic writing, and securing third-party funding provides students with beneficial tools to advance their research and manage projects effectively, preparing them for leadership roles in both academic and industrial settings.
• Career development: This training focuses on essential teamwork and leadership skills, technology transfer, and career strategy development, empowering participants to excel in both academic and industry roles.
• Self-management: Participants learn valuable skills in time management, work-life balance, conflict resolution, and mental health awareness, ensuring that they can maintain productivity and well-being throughout their research careers. These skills are vital for achieving long-term success and personal fulfillment in demanding professional environments. 
• Teaching skills: With courses such as AI applications in teaching and strategies for handling challenging classroom situations, students gain practical teaching experience that prepares them for future academic roles. These skills not only enhance their ability to communicate complex topics but also equip them to mentor the next generation of researchers.
• Specific research topics & methods: Participants acquire practical, hands-on experience in areas like coding, data visualization, and prompt engineering, ensuring they stay at the forefront of technological advancements and can apply these skills to real-world research challenges.
• Introductory & advanced courses on Machine Learning and Data Management: Students are encouraged to deepen their expertise through introductory, advanced, and specialized courses in machine learning, data management, and their intersections. These courses, offered by BIFOLD members and lecturers from TU Berlin and other Berlin universities, allow students to tailor their learning to their research interests and career goals. PhD students work closely with their advisors to select courses that best support their individual development.

BIFOLD is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse research environment. We provide tailored training opportunities to support the unique needs of underrepresented groups in Data Science and Machine Learning. For example, we offer speech and communication training specifically designed for women, empowering them to confidently present their research and take on leadership roles in both academia and industry.

Additionally, we facilitate networking opportunities within BIFOLD and through our partner organizations, allowing participants to connect with like-minded peers and mentors. These networks help to build supportive communities, encourage collaboration, and promote equal opportunities for professional development, ensuring that all students can thrive and succeed in their academic and career paths.

Doctoral researchers are strongly encouraged to actively take part in national and international conferences. Further, the Graduate School supports the establishment of collaborative projects for PhD students, enabling joint project work and research stays at relevant national or international labs.
BIFOLD offers a range of further formats for its researchers, such as the BIFOLD Colloquium, Lunch talks, BIFOLD Day and workshops on specific topics. We also organize events with our partners in academia, for example, the Einstein Center for Digital Future and the HEIBRiDS Graduate School.