Meet to Write is a tailor-made framework of weekly 3h sessions to support PhD researchers in developing their writing style and habits that will guide them towards completion of manuscripts such as:

• Publications
• PhD proposal or PhD thesis
• Memos or reflections
• Science communication articles, blog entries or similar

During Meet to Write, participants write on their own writing projects. Participants share their writing goals and receive tips on the writing process from the organizer, Anja Matthiä. Occasionally, experts in academic writing and publishing present inputs on writing topics. In addition, a feedback process with peers or a writing expert is offered.

Participants can drop in and out each week, thereby selecting the specific topics and activities most suited to their needs and schedules.

• Develop consistent writing habits
• Complete scientific writing projects
• Develop a concise and convincing writing style
• Acquire and practice peer feedback and review skills
• Obtain the theory of writing scientific manuscripts

Dr. Anja Matthiä coordinates the GSMHS. Having found her pleasure in writing again, she wants to pass on her experience, as well as tips about academic writing to PhD researchers.

Dr. Riana Paola-Roos holds a degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Johannesburg, South Africa. She has taught English in various educational institutions in Switzerland and abroad. Within the field of linguistics and language teaching, she has published and is particularly interested in Academic English and English for Specific Purposes. She offers academic writing courses at master’s and doctoral levels at the Language Centre of the University of Basel and other educational institutions.

There are no ECTS directly awarded for the course. However, we encourage students to create a learning contract in consultation with their supervisor. In your learning contract you need to show 30 hours of participation (attendence of writing and input sessions + minimal 1 peer feedback session) to receive 1 ECTS. 

We offer 3 types of sessions:

• Writing only: 3 x 45 min writing interleaved with 10min breaks (Pomodoro timing).
• Feedback + Writing: 3 x 45 min writing (just like 'writing only'). In addition, people can receive expert feedback during these sessions. You can receive feedback by submitting your writing. Details are communicated via the mailing list.
• Input + Writing: Mini-workshop by one of our experts, usually between 9:00 and 10:00/10:30. Followed by 1/2 x 45 min writing.

Writing sessions always start with a with a joined welcome and goal setting round. We also end sessions for a joined goodbye. Of course, if you don't have 3 hours you can join according to your own schedule.