Thriving in Academia: Facing Impostor Syndrome & Navigating Academic Life in Norway

Xiaoran Gao / / -, Trondheim

On 21 August, DION hosted the seminar Thriving in Academia: Facing Impostor Syndrome & Navigating Academic Life in Norway.

A warm thank you to Marius Korsnes for sharing his perspective as a researcher in academia and for leading an open and engaging discussion. He focused on how to understand and deal with the impostor phenomenon, and on how to create a more inclusive and safe academic work environment.

DION wishes all temporary scientific employees at NTNU to thrive in academia and to carry out their research with motivation and enthusiasm, without being held back by self-doubt.

DION visit to Totenbadet

bhanushrestha / / Events, Gjøvik

On Wedesday 13 August, DION organized a refreshing and fun-filled social outing for temporary scientific staff at NTNU in Gjøvik. Sixteen participants, including PhD candidates and Postdoctoral researchers, joined the trip to Totenbadet, a popular waterpark and swimming hall located in Raufoss.

The event provided a great opportunity for colleagues to unwind, connect, and enjoy a day of relaxation outside the academic setting. With pools, slides, and wellness facilities, Totenbadet offered something for everyone, fostering camaraderie and strengthening the sense of community among NTNU’s international research staff.

DION continues to support temporary scientific employees by organizing inclusive and enjoyable events like this, helping build lasting connections across disciplines and cultures.

Exploring Mjøsa aboard the world’s oldest paddle steamer!

bhanushrestha / / Events, Gjøvik

This Saturday, 12 temporary scientific staff from NTNU in Gjøvik, including PhDs and PostDocs, set sail on Skibladner, the legendary 1856 paddle steamer, for a memorable journey from Gjøvik to Hamar in an event organized by DION.
With Mjøsa’s calm waters, fresh summer air, and panoramic views as our backdrop, it was the perfect opportunity to connect, share experiences, and enjoy a piece of Norwegian heritage together.
For many, it was the first time aboard Skibladner – known as the “white swan of Mjøsa” – and the trip was filled with good conversations, laughter, and new friendships.
A huge thanks to everyone who joined us and made this a day to remember!

DION’s Edible Plant Foraging Course – A Wonderful Afternoon in Nature!

Xiaoran Gao / / -

On May 22nd, DION hosted a wonderful afternoon of edible plant foraging and learning at Høyskoleparken, NTNU. Led by Patrick Bösch, a certified Wild Edible Plants Identification Expert, the event offered participants a chance to connect with nature, discover local edible plants, and practice sustainable harvesting techniques. Our members also found lots of inspiration for incorporating wild plants into their cooking.

A big thank you to everyone who joined us and made the afternoon so enjoyable! Stay tuned for more DION events, and let’s continue learning and growing together!

Empowering Academic Staff: A Seminar on Unions and the Norwegian Model

Xiaoran Gao / / -

On May 7th, Tekna and DION co-hosted a seminar in Trondheim to introduce temporary scientific staff at NTNU to the Norwegian Model and the role of unions in Norway.

Thanks to Tekna representatives Alexander Iversen, Eirin Marie Skjøndal Bar, and Rune Sætre for your advice and answers to our members’ questions! That was a great help for our members in understanding their situations, rights, and the resources available to them when they need support. Also, thanks to Lisebeth Hulmann for coordinating food services for the events across all three campuses.

DION is committed to supporting temporary scientific staff by connecting them with relevant resources and fostering an informed and inclusive academic community. Thanks to everyone who joined the event and all the discussions!