The AWI seeks to attract and promote the best people, and to offer our staff a unique scientific environment and comprehensive support in all stages of their development. Consistent with our mission, we take all measures necessary to promote and qualify the next generation of outstanding scientists. Our goal is to provide postdocs with the skills and support to become strong ambassadors for polar and marine science research for the AWI and the entire Helmholtz association. 

We provide our postdocs with the best opportunities to carry out world-leading and cutting-edge science and to advance their careers in the direction of their choice – within as well as outside of academia. 

With the launch of the Postdoc office for Professional Career Development (PROCEED) in 2018 the AWI seeks to support postdocs with the tools for a strong career path within academia, but also promote optimal career paths and ease of transition for those researchers aiming at a career outside the academic track (e.g. in the public and private sector, by self-employment, or founding one’s own company). PROCEEDS key functions are enhanced career planning, the promotion of a pro-active and self-enabled career development, and the encouragement to take steps towards early independence. Accordingly, PROCEED provides access to an individualized array of support measures to facilitate an informed career progression. We are also taking measures to better understand when career decisions are being made and which obstacles impede decisions making. 

PROCEED develops customized tools to empower postdocs to take charge of their careers, take well-informed decisions regarding their future career paths and hence shape their biographies. Consequently, we are also closely cooperating with PI’s and department heads to recommend suitable instruments and measures. PROCEED aims to improve the communication culture between postdocs and PI’s and function as a neutral third partner by providing ongoing mentoring services during early career development and ongoing career decisions. 

In career mentoring and coaching we promote a holistic approach that considers professional skills and competencies, but equally takes into account social and personal factors.