The meeting is a unique opportunity for young academics to get to know fellow researchers from across Europe and to discuss their research in small working groups. In addition, the program consists of plenary lectures addressing both scientific themes (e.g. the governance of non-profits, social capital and volunteering) and practical issues (e.g. supervisor-student relationship, the writing process). The active participation of academic staff and graduated PhD students also allows for informal discussion about academic work and (post-)doctoral life. Former network meetings were held in Windsor (2001 & 2002), Dublin (2003), Stockholm (2004), Rolduc (2005), Vienna (2006), Münster (2007), and Kaunas (2008).

The main goals of the network meeting are:

• To create a forum for PhD students working on civil society and the third sector, where they can present their work to a group of peers. To allow them to benefit from the feedback of fellow students and the advice of faculty who facilitate the group discussions.
• To introduce students to main theories, approaches, and developments in the field through lectures by renowned scholars.
• To meet and network with fellow young academics from across Europe and from a broad variety of disciplines. To assist students in becoming part of an emerging network of young European scholars working on similar themes.
  

Structure of the network meeting:

• A number of 45-50 participants will be invited to the network meeting.
  

• The meeting will include lectures and group sessions. During the group sessions, students will present their PhD work, and focus on current topics or questions in relation to which they like to receive feedback and advice.
• In the meeting does not use the paper-presenting format of regular conferences. It isintended to discuss the PhD project as such among young academics in different stages of their PhD project.
• The meeting will start on Thursday evening and close on Sunday around noon.
• Participants get free accommodation and a refund of travel costs (max. 250 euro).