First MHB Research Retreat: young researchers meet to learn from each other

Rüdersdorf, 3 September 2026

14 young scientists met for the first Research Retreat for Early Career Researchers in health services research at the Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane (MHB) on 27 and 28 August 2026. The location of the two-day event with workshops, intensive exchange and collaborative work away from university routines was the seminar house “Zebra” in Kagel/Brandenburg.

The purpose of the retreat was to bring junior researchers from the MHB together, specifically the team “User Experience in Digital Health” (UxDH), the CARE Lab and all other young scientists of the university who are active in the field of health services research. Participants exploring related issues separately used this opportunity to link up, exchange findings and develop new perspectives together.

Two focal points

The main topic in the first part was “From Research to Impact: Communicating Your Work”, presented by junior researcher and E-health networker Timo Frank (Hashtag Gesundheit e.V. / gematik). He described how to make findings visible and comprehensible, and how researchers position themselves and their work in expert communities and public perception.

The second part comprised a collaborative assignment, i.e. the development of recommended activities to improve Delphi studies. Here the focus was on enjoyment of participation and appreciation of the work accomplished.

Exchange and collective experience

Organizers of the retreat were Dr. Felix Mühlensiepen and Dr. Samia Akhter-Khan, under the auspices of the Brandenburg Center for Health Services Research (Zentrum für Versorgungsforschung Brandenburg ZVF-BB). Katrin Toptschian was in charge of preparations and on-site management. Participants enjoyed a campfire under the stars on the first evening of the event.

The feedback was positive throughout. Those present described the format with lively exchange, collective work and personal encounters as inspiring. A second edition of the Research Retreat is planned for next year.