Schedule & program
The mornings are dedicated to distraction-free writing (/reading) sessions –with the group or individually – giving participants the space and time to concentrate on their research. Afternoons feature expert talks and participatory workshops led by professionals and peers, offering fresh perspectives on sustainability, embodiment and the intersections of science and art. Rather than focusing on thematic content, the workshops are designed to be interactive and build participants’ capacities as researchers, encouraging reflection, creativity and new ways of engaging with academic work. Additionally, participants may earn study credits for attending the retreat, subject to approval from their university supervisor.
Evenings are reserved for relaxation and informal connection through sauna, nature walks, yoga, mindfulness-based workshops, board games and unstructured networking. Weather permitting, some sessions may take place outdoors. A more detailed program will be sent to registered participants closer to the event date.
What is included
Accommodation is in shared two- or three-bedroom flats, with each participant having a private room and access to a shared kitchen, bathroom. Bed linen, towels, and final cleaning are included. There is also an option to share a room to reduce costs.
Three meals per day (Mon-Thu, 2 meals on Friday) are included, as well as transport to and from Jyväskylä Matkakeskus (the long-distance bus/train station). We recommend bringing your own snacks as needed and take care of your own dinner on Sunday by either bringing something with you or eating in advance.
Participation in all activities is entirely voluntary. Attendees are welcome to skip sessions in favor of solo walks, rest, or personal reflection.
Open themed workshops
Participants have a chance to contribute to the retreat content by hosting an open-themed workshop. If you're interested in leading a session, please indicate this during registration.
These workshops offer space for sharing interests, testing methods, facilitating discussions, or exploring creative approaches with peers. The format is flexible: sessions may range from 30 to 90 minutes depending on demand, with approximately four parallel slots available during the retreat.
Aligned with the retreat’s main theme of balance, participants are especially encouraged to focus on capacity building rather than subject-specific content. Nevertheless, we are open to all ideas, as long as they are somehow related to interdisciplinary sustainability research and/or the development of early-career researchers.
All proposals will be reviewed by the organizers, who may make selections or suggestions to ensure a balanced program. Those who express interest will be contacted after registration closes. You’re also welcome to reach out to the organizers later if an idea emerges or if you have any questions.
Registration / Enrollment
Participation fee:
- Single room 495€/person (Two-/three-bedroom flats, where each person has their own room with shared kitchen, shower and toilet.)
- Shared room with one/two others 400€/person
Registration is open until 15 November. Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to register early to secure your spot. Cancellations after 15 December are non-refundable without a medical certificate. There is a reserve list in place, and if spots become available due to cancellations, they will be offered to those on the list in the order of registration.
Further information
Janna Jokela
jkjoke@utu.fi
