As a new PhD candidate at FGGA, you will be introduced to your PhD journey through two types of introductory activities: a university-wide programme and a faculty-specific meeting.

1. University-wide: Inform & Connect

Leiden University offers a central introductory programme for all PhD candidates, called Inform & Connect. This programme consists of two components:

Inform: an online module that provides essential information about the university, the PhD track, and available facilities. The module is designed to be completed early in your PhD, but you can go through it at your own pace — pausing, revisiting, or reviewing sections whenever needed. (This counts for 5 hours of training)

Connect: interactive theme sessions held throughout the year, covering topics such as starting your PhD, open science, communication, and career development. These sessions also offer opportunities to meet fellow PhD candidates. (This counts for 5 hours of training per session).

2. Faculty-specific: Meet Your Graduate School

In addition to the university-wide programme, FGGA plans to introduce a yearly event called Meet Your Graduate School. This informal gathering is designed to help new PhD candidates get to know:

• The Graduate School Office team
• The dean and PhD deans
• Support services (e.g. confidential advisor)
• The LUCRIS Converis system
• Fellow PhD candidates from across FGGA institutes

While participation in this event is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended for all new PhD candidates, both internal and external. The meeting offers a valuable opportunity to ask questions, build connections, and feel part of the FGGA PhD community.