Results

From the organizers and participants point of view both objectives were achieved. In workshop sessions, the participants worked out mind-maps that reflect the interdisciplinarity of ecosystem genesis. The links between connecting the disciplines involved in the ecosystem genesis research were pointed out. In addition, the students formulated 25 research questions based on research gaps that were identified during the first part of the winter school. The research questions mark potent research directions for interdisciplinary projects.

During the project management part of the winter school, the participants refined four out of the 25 research questions and planned research projects based on these four questions. Moreover, the students reflected their own PhD projects in means of project responsibilities, tasks and roles.

The keynote lectures were highly appreciated by all participants. The outstanding lecturers gave personal insights to their field of research and were open to discussion throughout the week. This atmosphere of openness and creativity stimulated the PhD students and made the week a success.