Starting in a PhD program can be as intimidating as exciting. In the process of working towards the PhD degree, they need to become well-versed in their literature, proficient in their methods, masters of their data and effective communicators, all at the same time. To do so, doctoral students need to develop essential scholarly skills to successfully carry out research that contributes to their respective fields. While doctoral schools support PhD students in this endeavor, the university library also offers resources and guidance in developing the kinds of skills needed across disciplines.
This course aims to introduce PhD students at Nord University to fundamental aspects of academic life and equip them with essential skills for a successful research career. The course also seeks to provide an arena in which PhD students from different fields can meet and develop fruitful peer relationships that support them throughout their PhD journeys and further in their research careers.
A certificate of participation will be provided for students who take part in at least 75% of the course.
Course schedule
| Date | Theme | Room |
| 4 May 2026 – 9:00-15:00 | Finding, assessing and managing literature | Ho309 |
| 5 May 2026 – 9:00 -15:15 | Writing and publishing | 9-11 Ho163 12-15:15 Ho354 |
| 6 May 2026 – 9:00-15:00 | Managing research data: From policies to impact | NY2.205 |
| 7 May 2026 – 9:00-15:00 | Presenting your research and networking | NY2.105 |
Schedule
Day 1
Introductions
Academic Integrity for Researchers (20 minutes)
Literature searches – purposes, types, heuristics, AI search tools
Reading academic papers 10 minutes lecture, 30 minutes for activity
Day 2
Good writing habits and strategies
Crafting academic arguments
Finetuning your English writing
Writing for diverse audiences
Open Access
Bibliometric Indicators and online profiles
Predatory publishing
Day 3
The Research Data Management (RDM) landscape
The RDM roadmap and pathways to impact
Data privacy in research
Writing a data management plan (DMP) (workshop)
Archiving data (workshop)
Day 4
How academic publishing works researchers POV
Choosing an outlet for your paper
Networking with practitioners and industry
Networking at conferences & writing an elevator pitch
Mentoring, networking, and strategic publishing
Creating a publication plan
Wrap up
Participation: Physically at Nord University, Levanger
Language of instruction: English
Target group: early-stage PhD students. Also useful for later stage PhD students and master's students who are interested in pursuing a PhD.
