We pin our hopes for happiness on Love and Work.

And yet, in relation to both, we refuse to

• Plan methodically,
• To understand ourselves thoroughly,
• To train relentlessly and,
• To go into therapy before we act.

          (The School of Life)

The University of Antwerp is an engaged employer for all its employees, irrespective of the duration of their contract. Based on a vision of motivating HR policy the university aims to invest in lifelong employability. This mission forms the basis of the Talent Center (HR Department): we aim to encourage and support early-career researchers in a pro-active management of their (future) career. For this purpose, the Talent Center organizes career counseling, training and networking initiatives that focus on career development and are tailor-made to early-career researchers.

Career Development for young researchers  

As a PhD student or postdoc you are very passionate about your job. But, at the same time, your job might cause uncertainty and questions about your (future) career. Are you puzzled by questions such as “what after my PhD or postdoc”?, “what are my career perspectives, in or outside academia?”, “is my profile a match with jobs outside academia?”, “how can I take more control over my career (choices)”?  … In brief, do you want support in managing your career? The Talent Center offers a various range of activities & trainings to help you steer your career.

Testimonials from participants on collective trainings and individual career coaching

• The Talent Center has contributed a lot to my personal development in recent years, since the first workshop I attended from it (Time Management in 2018).  Without exaggerating, it has changed my life. Not only do I see myself looking to the future with a broader perspective, but the presence of the Talent Center also feels like a strong support to develop me further. I would even say that the Talent Centre has played a very important role for me in how I experience the University of Antwerp as an employee.
• Although considering to leave the academic world wasn’t easy, the subjects discussed within the workshop and the conversations with co-participants really gave me the push I needed to explore challenges outside my academic comfort zone.
• "Emotionally Balanced Communication" is a helpful training that helps you put theory into practice. The exercises help you to get a grip on your strenghts & flaws when it comes to your own communication style.
• By taking the "Grow Your Future Career" course, I have gained tools and insights to search for jobs with purpose and confidence. I learned the importance but also gained hands-on experience in developing my personal brand, optimizing my LinkedIn profile and resume, and job screening and interview techniques.
• A real eye-opener!
• The workshop really responded to the specific needs of the participants.
• I would certainly advise career counseling to all early-career researchers. The coach is deeply engaged and uses useful & relevant tools to support you in your career orientation.