Shaping our work culture
Started in 2023, the Vienna BioCenter Leadership Program is a one-year training course for colleagues at IMP, IMBA, GMI, and VBCF. Participants form peer groups that receive guidance from expert trainers and then continuously develop their leadership skills further. The program, which links colleagues in leadership roles with a range of backgrounds, aims to shape the future work culture at the Vienna BioCenter.
The Vienna BioCenter is one of Europe’s leading life science hubs, fostering cutting-edge innovation in research, education, and business. The scientific excellence is not just about pioneering discoveries—it also requires exceptional leadership, collaboration, and vision.
The Vienna BioCenter Leadership Program, started in 2023, is designed to empower individuals across different professional backgrounds in academia. It is coordinated by the Vienna BioCenter Training Unit and open to members of IMP, IMBA, GMI, and VBCF. The program is implemented over the course of one year with trainings, combined with complementary peer group meet-ups. This training strengthens colleagues with staff responsibility within research, administration, and other leadership roles, ultimately shaping the work culture of the entire campus community.
Unique and highly innovative
Leadership training in academic life sciences is often treated as an afterthought, despite its critical role in advancing research and creating productive, inspiring work environments. The Vienna BioCenter Leadership Program is an unparalleled initiative in the academic life science scene, designed to address this gap through an innovative, research-driven approach. Unlike generic leadership programs, this initiative is tailored specifically to the needs of professionals navigating academia. It integrates scientific knowledge with leadership principles, ensuring that participants not only gain strategic and interpersonal skills but also learn how to apply them effectively in a research environment.
This program is not a standard one-size-fits-all training; it is an experience-based format that engages participants in real-world situations. By fostering self-reflection, open dialogue, and knowledge exchange, it empowers individuals to improve their leadership skills while staying true to their scientific ambitions.
Developed by experts from within academia
One of the key distinguishing features of the Vienna BioCenter Leadership Program is its collaborative development with expert trainers who are deeply embedded in academia themselves. These experts have firsthand experience in the challenges and dynamics of scientific leadership, making them a perfect fit to offer guidance that is both practical and informed by relevant facts. Their expertise ensures that the program remains highly applicable and aligned with the specific demands of the life sciences sector.
Participants benefit from a tailored curriculum designed to address common leadership challenges in academia, such as leading diverse teams, managing interdisciplinary projects, and driving innovation. Participants form groups that meet up for regular exercises during and beyond their cohort’s one-year training. The synergy between academic leadership theory and lasting, hands-on experience makes this program outstanding in its ability to deliver impact.
Connecting leaders across disciplines and institutions
The Vienna BioCenter Leadership Program creates connections. It is not limited to one discipline or professional role; instead, it brings together individuals from different leadership backgrounds, including research group leaders, administrative service heads, and other colleagues in roles with staff responsibilities.
The program is a collaborative effort between IMP, IMBA, GMI, and VBCF—leading institutes at the core of the Vienna BioCenter. This multi-institutional approach breaks silos, encourages cross-disciplinary networking, and strengthens the entire campus ecosystem. Participants gain a broader perspective on leadership, learning from one another’s experiences, challenges, and successes. This rich exchange of ideas creates a stronger sense of community, mutual support, and an improved leadership culture that benefits the entire Vienna BioCenter.
Impact on work culture beyond the campus
More than a one-off training, the Vienna BioCenter Leadership Program is a lighthouse project that is set to positively transform the work culture across the entire campus. A thriving leadership culture leads to more efficient teams, better decision-making, and an inspiring work environment where creativity and scientific breakthroughs flourish.
The program is expected to serve as an international model for leadership development in academic life sciences. By pioneering a structured, research-driven approach to leadership training, the Vienna BioCenter is setting a benchmark that will inspire other research institutions worldwide to follow suit.
For anyone aspiring to excel in academia—not just as a researcher but as a leader, innovator, and team builder—the Vienna BioCenter Leadership Program provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to develop the skills, mindset, and network necessary to drive meaningful change. It is an invitation to become part of a forward-thinking community dedicated to shaping the future of scientific leadership.
Further Reading