FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about COMETiN@GraduateAcademy

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about COMETiN

For Applicants

Who is COMETiN designed for?
COMETiN supports women in academic qualification phases – including advanced doctoral candidates, postdoctoral researchers, junior professors, and research group leaders. We especially welcome applicants with family responsibilities, international backgrounds, or non-linear career paths.

I am at the beginning of my PhD – is COMETiN the right fit for me?
Probably not. COMETiN is tailored to researchers with some academic experience who are actively considering their next career steps. If you are still in the early orientation phase, we recommend checking out alternative offers such as MeCoSa or the Graduate Academy’s workshop programme.

How is COMETiN different from other OVGU programs?
COMETiN is a one-year, interdisciplinary programme with a fixed cohort. It combines coaching, mentoring, training, and networking opportunities in a structured format.

Other formats – such as MeCoSa, individual GraduateAcademy courses, or the university’s Centre for Continuing Education – tend to be more selective in scope, shorter in duration, or discipline-specific.

MeCoSa focuses primarily on women in STEM fields who are transitioning into the Saxony-Anhalt labour market, while also offering coaching and mentoring formats.
COMETiN, on the other hand, targets women in academia exploring a broader range of career paths – including academic, non-academic, entrepreneurial, or hybrid trajectories.

What is the difference between coaching, mentoring, and training?

Coaching = structured group reflection with a trained facilitator
Mentoring = 1:1 tandem with an experienced person selected based on your goals and profile
Training = practical skills development through workshops, peer formats, and digital briefings

How much time should I expect to invest?
On average, around 3–4 hours per month for events and reflection.
Please check the programme schedule in advance, especially workshop dates.
Consistent participation is key to benefiting from the process.

What are the formal requirements for participation?
You should be in a qualification phase and affiliated with OVGU or the broader research landscape of Magdeburg/Saxony-Anhalt. A strong motivation and willingness to engage with the programme are essential.
We also encourage wildcard applications – if your background is slightly outside the “norm”, just explain why COMETiN matters to you and what you would bring to the group.

Is there a participation fee?
Yes, there is a symbolic participation fee of €100 for the full year. In some cases, your department or supervisor may be willing to cover this cost.

How do I apply?
Submit your application via email to cometin@ovgu.de by 31 July 2025.
Please include your responses to the guiding questions (see all Details on application website).

Is there an information session beforehand?
Yes! We offer a non-binding info call on 26 June 2025 at 1:00 pm (CET).

What happens after I complete the programme?
You become part of the growing COMETiN alumnae network, which offers online meetups, optional working groups, and follow-up formats.
Please register with a long-term email address to stay connected via the alumnae mailing list.

Do I receive a certificate?
Yes. Participants who attend at least 80% of the programme activities will receive an official certificate of participation issued by the Graduate Academy, including a full list of modules and workshops.

How important is mentoring within the programme?
Mentoring is one of the programme’s four key elements – but it develops individually and gradually. You’ll be involved in the matching process and supported in shaping a productive tandem.

I am currently going through a difficult personal situation – will COMETiN support me?
COMETiN is not a counselling or crisis support programme.
If you are in acute need, please reach out to the relevant university services – such as the Graduate Academy, the Equal Opportunity Office, psychological counselling, or external support providers.