BIGSSS Summer Retreat 2026 › view all

From June 16 to 18, BIGSSS once again held its Summer Retreat. The retreat brought together 18 fellows from the 2024 and 2025 cohorts, including a mix of Affiliated, Adjunct, and Regular Fellows, alongside BIGSSS faculty members. Two fellows from the 3GO Graduate School in Oldenburg joined for the first time, broadening the retreat's interdisciplinary spirit. As in previous years, the retreat took place at "Gut Ankelohe", a historic farmstead between Cuxhaven and Bremerhaven. 

Fellows had the opportunity to present their research projects to interdisciplinary audiences, sparking lively discussion across disciplines. A highlight of this year's program was a newly introduced Speed Dating format, in which fellows had the chance to connect with BIGSSS alumni who have pursued careers outside of academia, as well as with BIGSSS faculty, offering valuable perspectives on a range of professional paths.

We were also delighted to welcome back BIGSSS Alumna Dr. Lisa Heindl, who led a workshop titled "My Dissertation & I – A Friendship in Progress", offering fellows practical guidance and reflection on navigating the doctoral journey.

Of course, no Summer Retreat would be complete without some well-earned leisure time. Fellows and faculty gathered around the bonfire on the first evening, setting a warm and convivial tone for the days ahead.

Thank you to everyone who joined for what was a truly enriching and enjoyable Summer Retreat 2026.