Scientific Writing Online "Shortie": Proposal Writing

Course Objective:
Proposal writing tends to provoke anxiety among many early-career scientists. However, it is an essential skill as an attractively prepared research proposal is crucial for achieving sufficient resources to conduct a successful study. In this webinar, we will look at how to convince the jury that your ideas are worthy and exciting. This involves writing a clear and persuasive description of what you intend to do and emphasizing why it matters. Finally, we will look at some “deal-breakers”, common pitfalls that should be avoided.

Feedback is one of the best learning experiences: Participants of Module 2 will be given individual feedback on their texts in order to strengthen their future proposals.

Topics:

Module 1a: Proposal writing (1 hour)

• The key sections in proposals
• Framing your proposed research to emphasize its novelty, importance
• Creating a coherent narrative
• Adapting the tone/language to the audience
• Common pitfalls
• Phrasebank of useful language

Module 1b: Language and style: Writing clearly and concisely (1 hour)

• Paragraph structure: forest followed by trees
• Writing short, concise sentences
• Improving word order
• Internet resources

Module 2: Feedback (1.5 hours)

• The group and trainer provide feedback on texts

It is possible to participate in Module 1 only.

Target audience: TransMed's doctoral candidates, postdocs, and clinician scientists

Maximum number of participants: unlimited for module 1, max. 5 groups à 3 participants for module 2

Methodology: Input by trainer, Q&A, writing and editing own text, feedback.

Preparation:

Module 1a and b: come prepared with questions on the topic
Module 2: write (part of) proposal/grant application (1/2-1 page A4). Your text will be proofread/edited by two/three other students and the trainer and discussed in the session.

Technology: Zoom
Please check that your PC meets the requirements beforehand (microphone, camera, Internet connection).  

Next Workshop:
Module 1: May 27, 9.30 am – 12.00 pm
Module 2: June 3 or 4, 1.5 h by arrangement

For module 1 0.3 CP and for both modules 1 CP for transferable skills training can be credited.