On 2 December 2025, from 13:00 to 16:00 (CET), the 4th World PhD Students Symposium “Meeting the Challenges of Climate Change 2025” will take place online. This international event recognises the vital role PhD students play in responding to the global climate crisis through innovative research and action.

The symposium acknowledges the essential contributions of PhD candidates to climate change research. Despite clear synergies between global research efforts, many students still work in isolation, with limited opportunities for exchange. This event aims to bridge that gap by offering a space where students from around the world can present and discuss their ongoing research.

Organised by the World PhD Students Climate Change Network at the Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, in collaboration with the International Climate Change Information and Research Programme (ICCIRP), the European Academic Network for Capacity Development in Climate Change Adaptations in Africa (NetCDA), the Shared Gardens for Climate Change Adaptation project, and the Interdisciplinary Expert Centre on Climate Change and Health (IECCCH), the symposium promotes the exchange of ideas and experiences and encourages international collaboration among emerging researchers.

The event is intended to:

  • To provide PhD students worldwide with a platform to present their research on climate change mitigation and adaptation;
  • To encourage dialogue and knowledge sharing across disciplines and regions;
  • To foster international scientific networks and collaborative partnerships.

Participation is free of charge and open to all interested audiences, regardless of academic background.

Associated publication
Selected contributions may be invited for inclusion in an international scientific publication, providing greater visibility to current PhD research on climate change mitigation and adaptation.

The symposium is chaired by Professor Walter Leal (HAW Hamburg & Manchester Metropolitan University), supported by a team of international experts.