Humboldt Fellow Dr. Stanisław Boridczenko

Dr. Stanisław Boridczenko has joined the Faculty of History with an Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship. He used our Summer Academy Research Explorer Ruhr to meet Prof. Dr. Sören Urbansky and to work on the application. Here is what Stanisław has to say about his way to succeeding: 

Participating in the Summer School “Research Explorer Ruhr” was an invaluable experience that significantly contributed to my academic development. The programme provided an ideal opportunity to become familiar not only with the Ruhr region and its academic and cultural environment, but also with the German research funding landscape, including grant and fellowship opportunities. I believe this is particularly valuable for early-career researchers who are looking for the right place to develop their first independent projects after completing their PhD. 
What I found most important, however, was the opportunity to build personal connections with the local academic community. Although modern technology has made communication easier than ever through virtual meetings, nothing can truly replace face-to-face conversations. These interactions convinced me that Ruhr University Bochum offers an outstanding research environment, characterized by openness, scientific excellence, and a genuinely collaborative atmosphere. 
During my stay, I had the opportunity to discuss my research ideas with Professor Soeren Urbansky without the time pressure that often accompanies conference meetings or virtual meetings. Those conversations allowed me to refine my project, explore new directions, and gradually shape my future research plans. As a result, when I was awarded an Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship, just one year after the Summer School, I was able to begin my project with a clear vision and a strong foundation. Starting my fellowship at RUB felt less like arriving in an unfamiliar place and more like returning to a well-known academic home, where I could immediately focus on my research.

Congratulations, dear Stanisław ! We are thrilled to welcome you back!