Navigating NCCR SPIN’s second women’s retreat

The second NCCR SPIN women’s retreat took place on the 28th May 2024 in Spiez, near the beautiful lake of Thun.

After a pleasant morning coffee, the participants attended a workshop led by Prof. Heather Hofmeister from the Goethe University of Frankfurt, focusing on the topic “Clear and Constructive Communication”. The seminar room of the Hotel Seaside, where the event was held, offered a panoramic view on the Lake Thun. Despite the indecisive rain clouds lingering overhead, the landscape remained stunning. During the four-hour workshop, participants engaged in discussions and hands-on exercises to explore effective communication techniques and conflict resolution strategies for everyday life.

At around 13:00, a buffet lunch was served at the Hotel Seaside. Prof. Hofmeister joined the group so that discussions could continue over the lunch break.

As the clouds decided to leave for the afternoon, the group could enjoy canoeing on the Thunersee. Divided into three smaller groups, the canoes were manned by at least three people per boat. The young researchers started their journey in the harbor of Spiez, and paddled until Faulensee. Despite a few collisions along the way, the entire group made it back to Spiez on time to take the train at 17:00.

NCCR SPIN would like to thank all the women who participated to the retreat, and especially Prof. Heather Hofmeister for giving a great workshop!