What do professional athletes and PhD candidates have in common? More than you might think!

SPARK (Sports and Academic Research careers: Key challenges) is an Interactive workshop concept bringing together professional athletes (Professional Union Neuchâtel Basketball players) and PhD candidates for a unique cross-learning experience. Through guided discussions, group reflection, and hands-on activities, participants will explore the shared challenges of elite sport and academic research, and discover practical tools to navigate their own journey more sustainably.

PhD candidates will gain new perspectives on performance, resilience, teamwork, and transferable skills — drawing inspiration from elite sport while reflecting on how these tools can be applied within academia and beyond.

This workshop is designed for PhD candidates from all disciplines who are curious, open to dialogue, and interested in developing skills and practices that support both their research activities and career planning, while engaging with professional athletes.

Workshop language: English

Places : 12 (Priority given to PhD candidates, waitlist for Postdocs)

Registration deadline : 26.03.26 (11:00pm)

Cancellation fee (after registration deadline or no-show): 50 CHF

Info and registration