On 27 October 2023, the workshop "Scientific Networking is Important" was held online. The event was hosted by Larysa Shaulska, speakers Volodymyr Tarabara, Professor of Environmental Engineering at the University of Michigan, and Svitlana Krasynska, Research Director of the MIT-Ukraine Programme, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, discussed the importance of networking in scientific activities.
The speakers shared their experience of adapting to a new country and described how they managed to establish useful connections with other scientists. Svitlana Krasynska emphasised the need to properly and actively manage your social media and create a business card website. According to her, this will help scientists to make themselves known and find potential partners for cooperation. Volodymyr Tarabara noted that the most common mistake made by scientists is writing template letters. He advised to be more individual and address a specific person you want to meet.
At the end of the workshop, Oleksandr Romanko, a scientist and entrepreneur, joined the discussion and shared his experience of networking in Ukraine and abroad.
The workshop participants received answers to their questions and advice from the speakers on effective networking.
The main conclusions of the workshop:
- Networking is an important part of scientific activity. It helps to establish contacts with other scientists, find co-authors for projects, get support and opportunities for professional development.
- You should not be afraid to meet new people and share your ideas.
Tips for effective networking:
- Build relationships with people who work in your field.
- Participate in scientific conferences and seminars.
- Attend events in scientific communities.
- Be active on social media.
- Create a business card website.
- Don't be afraid to ask other scientists for help.