Navigating the Research Seas: Transferable Skills for PIs

The training program "Navigating the Research Seas: Transferable Skills for PIs" was designed to address the need for soft skills development among Principal Investigators (PIs). The role of a PI goes beyond technical expertise, as they are responsible for shaping the direction of their research teams and fostering a culture of excellence. As emphasized by the questionnaire, we are in favor of PIs in the CFM and DIPC communities. Good leadership skills are indispensable for avoiding problems within a group and enhancing overall productivity.

Effective communication, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal skills form the backbone of successful leadership, creating a positive and collaborative environment where team members feel valued and supported. PIs who excel in motivating and inspiring their teams play a pivotal role in driving innovation and achieving collective goals. This training recognized the importance of honing soft skills and provided tools, the necessary self reflection for each PI to lead, influence, and nurture within their own unique style, their research groups in the interconnected and dynamic landscape of modern science.

This training consisted of three sessions that aligned with the various phases of group dynamics, enabling PIs to have tools for the different phases of the process or research groups. The tips and tools tackled how to form, navigate challenges, and optimize their research teams. As we embarked on this journey, we explored the critical aspects of leadership, from forming a good-performing group to handling diversity and conflicts, and finally, fostering productivity and motivation within your research team.