Career development, international travel and networking: Functional Grains Centre PhD student Ms Rachael Wood jumped at the chance to take part in the Research Opportunities Week at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) in Germany.

Ms Wood was one of 50 young scientists from around the world selected to take part in the five-day event in April.

She said it has given her an insight into postdoctoral research opportunities in Germany and a foot in the door at the University.

“I visited different research facilities at the university, learnt about potential postdoctoral funding opportunities and met with past ROW participants and Technical University of Munich fellows.

“The week also included a city tour of Munich, networking dinners and a tour of the world’s oldest brewery which is a part of the Weihenstephan campus, with a few tastings included.”

Ms Wood’s PhD research at the FGC is investigating how rice grain quality is influenced by on-farm practices.

“It was nice to network with other young scientists and professors from completely different disciples to mine.

“Now I am a ROW participant I’m also eligible for the Technical University of Munich Foundation Fellowship which provides funding for one-year and the freedom to work on your own research.

“I would highly recommend the week if you are thinking about conducting postdoctoral study in Munich,” Ms Wood said.

Read more about the program here. https://www.tum.de/en/research/postdocs/research-opportunities-week/