A researcher's week

Do you work on various projects?

At Dialogic, as an employee, you have the opportunity to work in different domains. One striking aspect is that many of our projects have an interdisciplinary nature. This means you get to work on challenging projects that span different fields, constantly being encouraged to explore new perspectives and find solutions that go beyond one specific domain.

Another aspect I greatly appreciate is the autonomy you have to choose your direction. This not only involves the freedom to pick the domains you work in but also the possibility to specialise in various methodologies. Therefore, you are not limited to just one topic but have the chance to deepen your methodological skills, ensuring that the work remains varied and engaging.

What activities do you engage in during a week?

Your workdays can vary significantly from week to week due to being involved in projects at different research stages.

Some weeks may be filled with interviews and supervisory committees, while others might offer more time for reading and writing. Most weeks involve a balanced mix of tasks, including conducting interviews, desk research, report writing, internal meetings, and catch-up sessions. This variety works well for me, helping me stay motivated and curious.

In addition, external on-site meetings are part of the experience, providing a welcome change in your workweek and the opportunity for direct interactions with ministries and a wide range of interview respondents.

We have short communication lines, meaning you do not have to constantly schedule meetings to stay informed and can easily and efficiently ask questions. This creates an environment where learning and collaborating come naturally, keeping you well informed about project progress.

Do you also communicate with clients?

As a junior at Dialogic, participating in meetings is a valuable opportunity for growth and learning. It not only allows you to get to know clients but also helps you become familiar with project management in a comfortable way. Additionally, you will have a lot of email communication with interview respondents and clients.

As a junior, you quickly get the chance to take on responsibilities for project components. You have the opportunity to contribute to projects, knowing you can always rely on colleagues within and outside the project team. This combination of responsibility and support creates a supportive and learning environment.

What is the atmosphere like in the office?

I am present in the office almost every working day, but this varies per person. What I have noticed for myself is that I prefer being surrounded by colleagues in the office. The positive atmosphere in the office helps me concentrate and allows me to have a chat now and then.

Our custom in the office is to have lunch together every day at a long table. The company arranges the general order, providing a table full of bread and toppings for everyone to make their own lunch. This is a pleasant moment to relax and catch up.

We also enjoy having a drink on Thursdays or Fridays. We have our nice space downstairs with a fridge filled with drinks where we can unwind after work. Additionally, we like to organise outings. This can range from participating in the company relay triathlon to boat trips, karaoke evenings, and theatre visits. These activities contribute to a close-knit and enjoyable work culture.