Training Modules for PhD researchers and MA students

Within the framework of the Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence ReThinkEU – Rethinking Europe in a Changing World, the Brussels School of Governance is pleased to offer two intensive training modules designed to equip MA and PhD researchers with academic and policy-oriented writing skills. There are no costs of participating in either both or one of the modules. 

The ReThinkEU Centre of Excellence promotes innovative research and advanced training on the evolving challenges facing Europe, including democratic transformations, governance dynamics, and geopolitical change. These training sessions contribute to this mission by strengthening the analytical, methodological, and professional capacities of early-career scholars working on European politics and governance.

Academic Writing and Project Acquisition

Timing: 4 May, from 13:00 to 17:00

Instructor: Caterina Carta, Brussels School of Governance 

This interactive four-hour training helps doctoral researchers strengthen their academic writing and learn how to successfully navigate the competitive landscape of research funding.

The module combines conceptual guidance with hands-on practice and is structured in two parts:

• Academic Writing (3 hours): participants explore the structure of a PhD thesis, refine their research questions, and develop coherent research designs. The session focuses on argumentation, structure, and citation practices in high-level academic writing.
• Project Acquisition (1 hour): participants gain insights into research funding processes, learn how to identify relevant opportunities, and work on the key elements of competitive research proposals.

Through practical writing exercises, a writing lab, and structured peer-review sessions, participants will work directly on their own drafts, exchange feedback with peers, and reflect on the ethical and professional dimensions of academic writing.

Political Writing and Analysis

Timing: 5 & 7 May, from 14:00  to 17:00

Instructor: Raluca Moldovan, Babeș-Bolyai University

This six-hour training module develops participants’ ability to produce clear, analytically rigorous, and policy-relevant political writing. The course combines analytical reflection with applied exercises and focuses on argument construction, analytical clarity, and the translation of research into persuasive academic and policy-oriented texts.

Through interactive lectures, writing exercises, peer-review sessions, and policy-analysis simulations, participants will develop tools to communicate complex political ideas effectively to both academic and policy audiences

Registration

Participation is open to MA, Master-after-Master students and PhD researchers from the BSoG and the VUB. A limited number of students from other universities may be allowed too. 

The registration may take place for both modules or only for one of them. Detailed syllabi will be shared with registered participants.

Interested participants are invited to register by 20 April 2026.