Mag. Tamara Weiss, PhD
Department of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery , Medical University of Vienna
Life Sciences
Position: Postdoc, Laborleiterin, IKV teaching
Research focus: human peripheral nerve regeneration / Schwann cells / neuro-glia interaction
Group size: 5
Contact: tamara.weiss@meduniwien.ac.at
What I offer
My goal is to support PhD students in navigating this exciting, challenging, and intense phase of their careers. I aim to help them develop realistic expectations, discover their scientific passion, and acquire the skills needed to face both scientific and personal challenges.
I offer guidance on everyday aspects of PhD life, such as organization, how to start writing a paper, choosing a suitable journal, accessing journal information, presenting one’s PhD story, and dealing with difficulties related to supervisors or the project itself.
We will also address Good Scientific Practice, as scientific integrity is not always easily reconciled with the structural demands and performance pressures of traditional academic careers. How to act responsibly and reflectively as a scientist within this tension is a central question that we will explore together.
What I expect from the students
From the group, I expect a trusting and respectful atmosphere that creates a safe space where we can be honest with ourselves and with each other, share real issues openly, and keep everything discussed confidential.
The content of our meetings should be shaped together, reflecting the needs and contributions of all participants.
Time constraints for meetings
Six meetings of about 1.5 hours each, scheduled by arrangement, to be held at AKH / old AKH area.
What else I would like to say
A PhD should not be seen as a box to be ticked on a CV. When expectations are misguided and genuine fascination for science is lacking, frustration often arises quickly. This not only affects the quality of the research project, but also takes a toll on the individual.
To make a PhD a truly rewarding experience, it is important to cultivate curiosity, resilience, and a supportive environment. With the right guidance and mindset, the PhD journey can become not only productive but also personally fulfilling.