By Henry 
Have you ever wondered how to turn your passion for sustainable development into a thriving academic career, especially in the heart of Europe’s environmental economics scene? As a young researcher in environmental and resource economics, diving into AURÖ workshops could be your gateway to meaningful connections and real-world impact.
AURÖ, short for the Ausschuss für Umwelt- und Ressourcenökonomie, stands as a key pillar in the German association of environmental economists. It operates under the Verein für Socialpolitik, fostering collaboration among scholars focused on pressing issues like resource management and climate policy. For PhD students and early-career academics in the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), these workshops offer a welcoming space to share ideas and grow. Think of them as a cozy academic campfire, where rigorous discussions meet supportive mentorship, helping you navigate the often daunting world of doctoral research.
In this guide, we’ll explore why AURÖ matters, how to get involved, and the perks that can shape your path in environmental academia. Whether you’re eyeing funding for resource economics research or simply want to network, let’s break it down step by step.
AURÖ serves as the Standing Field Committee on Environmental and Resource Economics within the Verein für Socialpolitik, Germany’s leading economic association. Founded to bridge academic excellence with practical policy insights, it brings together experts tackling challenges in sustainable development, from energy transitions to biodiversity conservation.
At its core, AURÖ promotes high-quality research and dialogue. It connects with broader networks like the European Association of Environmental and Resource Economists (EAERE), which often highlights AURÖ events. For instance, collaborations with institutions such as ZEW Mannheim ensure workshops align with cutting-edge topics in environmental economics.
If you’re based in the DACH region, AURÖ feels like home turf. It emphasizes regional collaboration, making it easier for young researchers to engage without the barriers of international travel. Plus, its ties to organizations like EAERE open doors to wider European opportunities, blending local focus with global relevance.
Imagine presenting your latest paper on sustainable development to a room full of peers who truly get it, then walking away with fresh insights and new contacts. That’s the magic of AURÖ workshops. These events, held annually, target doctoral researchers and postdocs, providing a low-pressure environment to refine your work.
Research suggests that early participation in such forums boosts career trajectories, offering exposure to the peer review process and real feedback. For example, past attendees have shared how discussions helped polish their theses, leading to publications in top journals. In the DACH region economics scene, where competition is fierce, these workshops stand out by prioritizing community over cutthroat rivalry.
Moreover, they address common doubts: What if my paper isn’t perfect? AURÖ encourages submissions of working drafts, focusing on growth rather than perfection. This approach demystifies academic workshops, making them accessible for those new to the field.
Joining an AURÖ workshop isn’t just about presenting; it’s a launchpad for your career in environmental academia. Here are some key advantages:
- Feedback and Skill Building: Get constructive input from seasoned economists, honing your presentation and analytical skills. Many participants report improved confidence in the peer review process.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded scholars from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. These relationships often lead to collaborations, job leads, or even mentorship.
- Exposure to Cutting-Edge Topics: Dive into areas like climate policy and resource economics, with keynotes from experts such as Maria Waldinger or Lutz Sager.
- Career Development: Workshops highlight funding for resource economics research, including DFG grants, and offer insights into career paths in environmental academia.
- Community Support: Feel part of a supportive network, reducing isolation common among PhD students.
To illustrate, consider this simple table comparing AURÖ workshops to general academic conferences:
| Aspect | AURÖ Workshops | General Conferences |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Environmental and resource economics | Broad economics or interdisciplinary |
| Audience Size | Small, intimate (20-50 participants) | Large (hundreds) |
| Target Group | Young researchers in DACH region | All levels, global |
| Cost | No fee, self-cover travel/accommodation | Often high registration fees |
| Networking Style | Peer-oriented, discussions | Formal panels, less personal |
This setup makes AURÖ particularly appealing for early-career folks, emphasizing quality interactions over overwhelming scale.
Submitting to an AURÖ workshop is straightforward, designed to encourage young voices. Take the upcoming 2026 event as an example: Hosted by Leipzig University from March 4 to 6, it invites contributions from all subfields of environmental and resource economics.
Start by preparing a working paper or extended abstract. Include your research question, literature contribution, methodology, and results. For the 2026 workshop, submit via the online portal by January 9, 2026. Notifications come by January 17, with registration due January 31.
Tips for success:
- Tailor your abstract to highlight relevance to sustainable development or DACH region economics.
- If you’re unsure, review past calls for papers on sites like EAERE or ZEW Mannheim for inspiration.
- No submission fee applies, though you’ll handle your own travel costs.
Past submissions have covered topics from biodiversity economics to energy transitions, showing the breadth of acceptance. And remember, the process mirrors the peer review in top journals, giving you valuable practice.
One of the standout features of AURÖ is its emphasis on environmental and resource economics networking. In the DACH region, where institutions like ZEW Mannheim and universities in Austria and Switzerland lead the way, these workshops act as a hub.
For instance, attendees often form study groups or co-author papers post-event. The small-group format fosters genuine conversations, unlike larger conferences where networking can feel rushed. Plus, with EAERE’s involvement, you gain visibility beyond borders.
If you’re a doctoral researcher, think of it as building your professional tribe. Many alumni credit AURÖ for introductions that led to postdoc positions or collaborative grants. To maximize this, prepare a short elevator pitch about your work, and follow up with contacts via email or LinkedIn.
While AURÖ itself doesn’t provide direct funding, workshops often spotlight opportunities like DFG grants for resource economics research. Speakers share tips on securing support for projects in sustainable development.
Career paths discussed include academia, policy roles at think tanks like ZEW, or even international bodies like EAERE. For young researchers, hearing real stories debunk myths, such as the idea that environmental economics lacks job prospects. In reality, demand is growing, especially in the DACH region with its strong green policies.
A quick chart to visualize career progression (described here as text): Early stage (PhD): Focus on workshops like AURÖ for feedback. Mid-stage (Postdoc): Leverage networks for collaborations. Advanced: Contribute as a mentor or keynote.
Mark your calendar for the 2026 AURÖ Workshop for Young Researchers, set for March 4-6 at Leipzig University. With keynotes on timely topics, it’s a must for those in environmental economics.
To stay updated, join the Verein für Socialpolitik mailing list or follow EAERE announcements. Social media, like X (formerly Twitter), often shares calls for papers, as seen in recent posts from ZEW.
In wrapping up, AURÖ workshops offer more than just presentations; they build a foundation for impactful careers in resource economics. If you’re ready to submit your work or join the community, start today. Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below, what challenges do you face in environmental and resource economics networking?
Next Steps:
- Review the submission guidelines on the Leipzig University site.
- Prepare your abstract with keywords like sustainable development.
- Connect with past attendees via LinkedIn for tips.
- Explore EAERE for complementary events.
- Apply for related funding through DFG or similar bodies.
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What is AURÖ and who can join its workshops?
AURÖ is the committee for environmental and resource economics under the Verein für Socialpolitik. Workshops are open to young researchers, especially PhD students and postdocs from the DACH region, but contributions from related fields are welcome.
How do I submit papers to AURÖ conferences?
Submit a working paper or extended abstract via the event’s online portal. For 2026, the deadline is January 9, including details on your research question and methods.
Are there costs to attend AURÖ workshops?
No conference fee, but participants cover travel and accommodation. This keeps it accessible for doctoral researchers.
What benefits do AURÖ workshops offer for career development?
They provide feedback through the peer review process, networking in DACH region economics, and insights into funding for resource economics research, helping build career paths in environmental academia.
How does AURÖ connect to EAERE and ZEW Mannheim?
AURÖ collaborates with EAERE for promotion and ZEW Mannheim for hosting, expanding opportunities in European environmental economics.
Can I attend if I’m not from the DACH region?
While targeted at Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, international young researchers with relevant work are encouraged to apply.
What topics are covered in AURÖ workshops?
All areas of environmental and resource economics, from sustainable development to policy analysis, with a focus on innovative, early-stage research.