Did you know that environmental challenges like climate change and resource scarcity demand fresh economic insights from the next generation of scholars? As an early-career researcher in environmental and resource economics, finding the right platform to share your ideas can feel overwhelming. That’s where the aurö workshop comes in: a key event designed to launch promising careers in this vital field.
This gathering, organized by the German Association for Environmental and Resource Economists (AURÖ), offers a supportive space for PhD students and postdocs to present their work and grow professionally. In this article, we’ll explore how these workshops build skills, foster connections, and open doors in academic networking. Whether you’re drafting your first paper or mentoring juniors, you’ll discover practical ways to get involved.
What is the AURÖ Workshop?
The aurö workshop stands as an annual highlight for young scholars in environmental and resource economics. Hosted by the Standing Field Committee on Environmental and Resource Economics (AURÖ) within the Verein für Socialpolitik, it brings together early-career researchers from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and beyond.
Think of it as a cozy academic hub, not a massive conference. The focus stays on quality discussions rather than overwhelming crowds. For instance, the 2026 edition is set for March 4 to 6 at Leipzig University, emphasizing in-person interactions to spark real collaboration.
AURÖ, short for Ausschuss für Umwelt- und Ressourcenökonomie, promotes research in areas like sustainable resource management and economic policies for environmental protection. The committee includes leading economists who guide the field, ensuring workshops align with current trends.
These events tie into broader networks, such as EAERE (European Association of Environmental and Resource Economists) activities. If you’ve attended EAERE events, you’ll notice similarities: both prioritize peer review and feedback in a welcoming environment.
The workshop’s roots trace back to fostering German-speaking economists, but it welcomes international participants. Sessions cover diverse topics, from biodiversity economics to climate policy modeling, all in English to encourage global exchange.
Benefits for Junior Researchers in Environmental Economics
Stepping into academia often means navigating uncertainty, but the aurö workshop eases that path with targeted support. For PhD students and postdocs, it delivers specialized feedback that sharpens research and boosts confidence.
One major perk is the peer review process. Presenters submit working papers and receive constructive input from experienced mentors. Imagine sharing your resource economics research on water scarcity and getting tips from experts who’ve published in top journals like the Journal of Environmental Economics and Management.
Career development shines here too. Workshops include sessions on grant writing, publishing strategies, and job market prep. Many attendees land collaborations that lead to co-authored papers or invitations to larger conferences.
Let’s debunk a common myth: these events aren’t just for polished projects. Even rough drafts are welcome, as the goal is growth. Real examples abound, like a 2025 participant from the University of Passau who refined their fieldwork on sustainable agriculture through group discussions.
Beyond skills, the emotional boost matters. In a field tackling urgent issues like biodiversity loss, connecting with peers reminds you you’re not alone. This sense of community combats isolation often felt in PhD programs.
To illustrate the value, consider this table comparing the AURÖ workshop to similar events:
| Aspect | AURÖ Workshop | EAERE Annual Conference | General Economics Workshop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Early-career (PhD, postdocs) | All levels, broader European focus | Mixed, often senior-heavy |
| Size | Small (50-100 attendees) | Large (500+) | Varies, but often crowded |
| Focus | Feedback and networking | Presentations and keynotes | Broad topics, less specialized |
| Cost | Free (cover own travel) | Registration fees apply | Often fee-based |
| Location Example | Leipzig (2026), Mannheim (2025) | Rotating European cities | University-hosted, variable |
This setup makes AURÖ ideal for building a strong foundation without the pressure of bigger venues.
How to Participate and Present at the AURÖ Workshop
Getting involved in the aurö workshop is straightforward, but preparation pays off. Start by checking the call for papers, typically released months in advance on sites like the Verein für Socialpolitik or EAERE portals.
For the 2026 event in Leipzig, submissions closed on January 9, with notifications by January 17. If you missed it, mark your calendar for next year: deadlines often fall in late fall or early winter.
To apply, prepare a working paper outlining your research question, methods, and preliminary results. Use the online form provided by organizers, like the one hosted by Leipzig’s Research Training Group on Economics of Connected Natural Commons.
No extended abstract? No problem: a 1-2 page summary works if it highlights your contribution to environmental and resource economics. Topics range widely, from energy transitions to ecosystem valuation.
Once accepted, register by the deadline (January 31 for 2026). There’s no fee, but budget for travel to places like Leipzig or past spots such as Mannheim and Passau.
Presentation tips: Keep slides clear and engaging. Practice explaining complex models with simple analogies, like comparing carbon pricing to a toll road that discourages overuse.
If presenting field research, share real-world examples. A postdoc might discuss data from Ghana’s sustainable farming projects, as seen in past workshops, to make abstract economics tangible.
Mentors and academic advisors: Encourage your students to submit. Many AURÖ members serve as discussants, providing that “mentor-like” guidance to nurture talent.
Networking Opportunities for Resource Economists
Networking often gets overlooked, but at AURÖ events, it’s baked into the experience. The small scale allows for meaningful chats over coffee, unlike rushed interactions at massive conferences.
Connect with peers tackling similar challenges, like modeling natural resource depletion. These bonds can lead to joint projects or recommendations for positions at institutions like ZEW Mannheim.
Keynote speakers add star power. In 2026, hear from Maria Waldinger (KU Eichstätt-Ingolstadt) on historical climate impacts or Lutz Sager (ESSEC Business School) on inequality in environmental policy.
Social activities, such as group dinners, foster informal ties. Picture discussing bioenergy economics while strolling Leipzig’s historic streets: that’s the vibe.
For German Association for Environmental and Resource Economists members, it’s a chance to engage deeper. Non-members can join to access resources and future invites.
Long-term, these connections pay dividends. Alumni often cite AURÖ as a launchpad for roles in academia, think tanks, or policy advising at bodies like the European Commission.
To maximize networking, prepare questions in advance. Ask about ongoing resource economics research or tips for navigating peer review: you’ll leave with actionable insights.
Real-World Impact: Feedback and Career Growth Stories
The true magic of AURÖ lies in its real-world examples of career acceleration. Take Franziska Jäckel from the University of Passau: at the 2025 Mannheim workshop, she presented Ghana-based field research on sustainable land use, gaining feedback that strengthened her publication pipeline.
Another story: A PhD student from Kiel University shared work on marine resource economics at a 2023 event. The discussions led to a collaboration with Swiss colleagues, resulting in a co-authored paper.
Feedback loops are key. Presenters get detailed comments from discussants, helping refine arguments on topics like pollution trading schemes.
For junior researchers, this mimics the peer review process in a low-stakes setting. One myth to bust: You don’t need perfect data. Rough results spark the best debates, as seen in sessions on emerging issues like digital tools for environmental monitoring.
Mentors play a vital role too. AURÖ encourages senior economists to attend, offering guidance on everything from grant applications to work-life balance in academia.
Overall, these stories show how AURÖ bridges theory and practice, turning abstract economic models into tools for real environmental change.
Exploring Related Events and Broader Communities
While AURÖ shines for its focus, it complements other gatherings. For example, link up with EAERE events for a European perspective on environmental economics.
The World Congress of Environmental and Resource Economists (WCERE) in 2026 offers a global stage, but AURÖ prepares you for it with honed presentation skills.
In Germany, ZEW Mannheim often co-hosts, blending research with policy discussions. If you’re into field research, look for synergies with groups studying connected natural commons, like biodiversity and atmosphere economics.
Joining AURÖ as a member unlocks newsletters, job postings, and priority for workshops. It’s a smart move for anyone in resource economics research.
To stay updated, follow Verein für Socialpolitik announcements or subscribe to EAERE updates. This keeps you in the loop for calls like the AURÖ 2025 in Mannheim or future ones.
In wrapping up sections, remember: These platforms aren’t isolated. They form a web of opportunities, helping you weave a robust career tapestry.
In conclusion, diving into the AURÖ workshop can transform your early-career journey in environmental and resource economics. Here are five tips to get started today: First, review past programs for inspiration. Second, draft a submission even if it’s preliminary. Third, reach out to AURÖ organizers for questions. Fourth, prepare by reading keynote speakers’ work. Fifth, follow up post-event with new contacts. What’s your next step in academic networking? Share in the comments below.
FAQs
What is AURÖ and how does it support young researchers?
AURÖ is the German Association for Environmental and Resource Economists, a committee under the Verein für Socialpolitik. It supports juniors through workshops offering presentations, feedback, and networking in a collaborative space.
When and where is the next AURÖ workshop?
The 2026 workshop runs March 4-6 in Leipzig, Germany. It’s in-person at Grimmaische Straße 12, hosted by Leipzig University.
How do I submit a paper to the AURÖ workshop?
Submit a working paper via the online form by the deadline (January 9 for 2026). Include your research question, methods, and results; notifications follow shortly after.
Is there a fee to attend the AURÖ workshop?
No, there’s no registration fee. Participants cover their own travel and accommodation costs.
Who can present at the AURÖ workshop?
Early-career researchers, especially PhD students and postdocs from German-speaking countries, but international submissions are welcome in all environmental and resource economics fields.
What makes AURÖ different from other economics conferences?
Its small size emphasizes personalized feedback and networking, unlike larger events. It’s tailored for juniors, with mentors providing practical career advice.
How can I join the German Association for Environmental and Resource Economists?
Visit the Verein für Socialpolitik website to apply for membership, gaining access to resources, events, and the AURÖ community.
