This offer may also be asked for by supervisors.
In very many cases, the relationship between PhD students and their supervisors is trusting and positive. This makes it possible for both sides to work in a result-oriented fashion.
In the few situations for which this is not the case, considerable problems may arise.
The dependence of PhD students on their supervisors often makes communication very difficult for both parties. Not talking can introduce a lot of tension into the situation and this usually disrupts communication altogether. This can, quite often, affect the atmosphere in the entire team.
External assistance aimed at clarification in such situations, which are characterized by irritations, misunderstandings, and conflicts, is necessary and can provide relief. However, this assistance cannot ensure that everything will be resolved. Nevertheless, non-partisan mediation can reduce tensions and open up for respectful all-partial dialogue, which can lead to the creation of realistic agreements. This is usually very helpful.
If you are looking for support in such a critical situation, you may get in touch with Edeltraud Eller, eller@uni-mainz.de, for a trustful expert counseling and to discuss potential next steps.
This offer is available to PhD students as well as to supervisors at JGU faculties 8, 9 10 and the Helmholtz Institute Mainz.
Edeltraud Eller has worked since 2010 as an independent mediator with teams from academic institutions as well as from a variety of commercial sectors. She is a certified clarification assistant. Clarification assistance is a method for mediation that is recognized by BM (German Association for Mediation).
Currently, this offer is accessible for ADA Mentees and ADA Alumni.