The Competence Centre has established the Second Hub for PhD Students engaging in research on emerging economies and CEE, or originating from emerging economies themselves. The hub functions as an exchange and backing platform, complementing students’ supervisor support in WU departments.

It targets networking among students, including regular informal meetings and interdisciplinary dialogue as relevant for this student body.

Idea and Approach

The goal of this Hub is to provide a centralized (digital) platform via Microsoft Teams where researchers from similar backgrounds can easily connect, share knowledge on funding opportunities, university policies, and navigating life in Vienna, and access useful tools to support both their academic and personal experiences beyond their respective departments. Complementing this Teams Channel are regular meet-ups and personal exchanges.

We intend to employ a flexible approach that allows the initiative to evolve based on feedback and engagement – we want it to be accessible but optional, so it becomes a natural resource and not an obligation.

Core Activities and Resources of the Second Hub:

• Informal Semester Meet-Up A semi-official gathering each semester that provides space for doctoral students from emerging economies to connect, exchange experiences, and engage in open peer dialogue across departments.

• Microsoft Teams Communication Platform A dedicated digital space facilitating knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and day-to-day interaction within the Hub community.

• Funding and Scholarship Database A curated selection of financial opportunities tailored to the needs of researchers from emerging economies.

• ASEA-UNINET Scholarship Guide A detailed resource outlining the full application and admission process at WU for ASEA-UNINET scholarship recipients (South-East Asia-specific).

• Living Guide to University and City Life A continuously evolving document offering practical guidance—from visa and housing to health insurance and administrative processes—crowdsourced by students for students.

• Cultural Resource Hub Insights into Vienna’s social and cultural life, including local events, restaurants, and community spaces, compiled through contributions from fellow PhD students.

• Discounted Language Course Access Support for academic and social integration through specially arranged language-learning opportunities.

If you are a PhD student and would like get involved in the Second Hub or simply learn more about the initiative, please contact us at emcee@wu.ac.at.