The IRTG serves as a vibrant networking platform for doctoral candidates and researchers within the CRC and beyond. Weekly IRTG Journal Clubs, organized by doctoral candidates, provide a forum to discuss current literature, present ongoing research, and exchange ideas on methodological challenges and innovative approaches.

A key networking highlight is the Neurovascular Disease (NVD) Academy, a two-day, doctoral-candidate–led meeting held immediately before the annual CRC retreat. Designed as a PI-free space, the Academy fosters open and informal scientific exchange. All participants present their research as work in progress and take part in tailored methods workshops and transferable skills courses. Organizing the NVD Academy also enables doctoral candidates to strengthen essential skills such as time management, communication, and teamwork.

Every three years, the CRC hosts an International Symposium, bringing together leading national and international experts alongside CRC researchers. Doctoral candidates actively contribute through poster presentations and by moderating panel discussions, creating valuable opportunities for international networking, scientific exchange, and career development.

To further promote collaboration and knowledge transfer, doctoral candidates and postdoctoral researchers are encouraged to participate in lab exchange programs, spending time in other CRC laboratories or in external labs worldwide. These exchanges, supported by travel grants, provide hands-on training in complementary methods and expose participants to diverse research cultures.

Finally, participation in national and international conferences and workshops in neurovascular biology and disease is strongly encouraged, enabling doctoral candidates to broaden their expertise and connect with the global neurovascular research community.