Settling In
The admin is behind you. Now comes the part that actually brought you here.
By now, the most urgent steps are done. Daily life is starting to feel more predictable, and you can shift focus to what you actually came here for — your research, and the people around it. This phase is less about ticking boxes and more about building something lasting.
Starting somewhere new is easier when you're not starting alone.
Someone who's been there
Every new TAM member is paired with a Welcome Buddy — an existing member of your host group who knows the city, the lab culture, and the small things that nobody puts in a guidebook.
Your buddy is not an administrator. They're a peer. Someone to grab coffee with, ask the awkward questions to, and help you find your feet in the first weeks.
- Help with everyday tasks outside of research
- Local tips for your city and neighbourhood
- Introductions to the wider TAM community
- A familiar face at your first TAM events
- Support with social integration — not just administration
Beyond academia. Sometimes the best connections happen outside the lab. Apps like Meetup and Meet5 are widely used in Germany to find interest-based groups — hiking, language exchange, board games, sport — and are a great way to build a social life that goes beyond your research circle.
Ready to explore what TAM offers you?
TAM's support for early career researchers varies by career stage and location. Tell us where you are and what you're working towards — and we'll show you what's available.
Welcome to The Adaptive Mind.
We're glad you're here. Everything that follows is built around helping you do the best work of your career — and enjoy the journey.
Questions at any point? Rebekka Volmer at the TAM TrainingHub is your first call.
Rebekka.volmer@uni-giessen.de →