A PHD PROGRAM OF THE FACULTY OF MEDICINE · UNIVERSITY OF BASEL

writing-retreat France

Description

Ready to make serious progress on that manuscript, proposal, or protocol? Join fellow PhD students for three inspiring days of focused writing, fresh mountain air, and cozy vibes in the hills of Alsace.

What’s waiting for you?

  • 16 structured writing blocks to dive deep into your work
  • Stunning views, delicious meals, and movement breaks to recharge
  • Dedicated time to finally clear your mind and just write
  • A quiet, supportive space away from emails, distractions, and Zoom calls
  • A charming eco-lodge nestled in nature—with a bit of wine-country magic

Writing

The PPHS Writing Retreat is designed to help you make focused, meaningful progress on a specific writing project. To ensure a productive experience, please come prepared to work independently but alongside a group of peers equally committed to deep, sustained writing.

What to bring:

  • A clear writing goal (e.g., complete a draft, revise a section, outline a proposal)
  • Your laptop and charger
  • Relevant materials: notes, articles, reference documents, data, etc.
  • Headphones (optional, if you prefer music or ambient sound while writing)
  • Any tools or resources you typically use when writing (e.g., citation software, notebooks, pens)

What to do during the retreat:

  • Treat each writing block as uninterrupted time to work toward your goal
  • Participate in goal-setting and reflection sessions to track your progress
  • Stay fully present—please clear your calendar of meetings and other responsibilities
  • Be respectful of others’ focus and maintain a quiet writing environment
  • Use breaks to refresh and prepare for the next writing session

This retreat is a commitment to yourself and your writing. Come ready to focus, reflect, and leave with tangible progress.


Target group

  • University of Basel PhD students of the Faculty of Medicine and of Swiss TPH (free of costs)
  • All levels of experience and all stages of PhD research and writing
  • Maximum 15 participants

Organizers

Natalie Johnson, PhD student Clinical Research

Grace Yoon, PhD student Public Health/Epidemiology


Workload

We can provide a certificate for a 12-hour workload. You can use this retreat as part of a learning contract for the complete Meet to Write offer.


Accomodation & Food

You will share a lodge with up to four other participants. If you prefer a private room, please contact the hotel directly to make your own arrangements and cover the additional cost.

Meals and water during mealtimes are included. Other beverages are at your own expense. Each lodge is equipped with a fridge, so you’re welcome to bring your own drinks as well.
We will contact you after registration to ask about your dietary preferences (meat/vegetarian/vegan) and any additional requirements.

Registration

Dates

26-28 May 2025

Program

The detailed program can be found here.