Online Event: Unlocking Incentives for Future Research – Empowering Early Career Researchers

The online workshop was aimed at early career researchers (ECRs) and explored incentive structures to create a more transparent and robust research environment. The event was organized by IG5 of the Allianz focus on “Digitality in Science”.

Together, we explored how different types of incentives (structural, cultural, personal etc.) can influence research practices and help create a more transparent, collaborative, and future-oriented research environment. We looked at strategies, policies, and examples that highlight new approaches in areas such as research data management, digital literacy, and open science. Rather than focusing solely on publishing, the workshop invited participants to consider what kind of recognition and support could make deeper engagement with the academic system more attractive and sustainable.

Participants were invited to share their perspectives on, among others, the following questions:

• What motivates you to contribute more broadly to academic life?
• What future do you imagine for academia?
• Where do you already see positive developments?

The discussion centered on which changes are needed to make the German academic landscape more welcoming and resilient. The workshop was aimed at giving ECRs a stronger voice to help shape this change – because the future of research depends on the people building it today.