After a year and a half, it was time again: the PtU seminar took place once more at Chalet Giersch in Manigod, France. This time, however, it was in the summer. Instead of snow-covered peaks, we were greeted by green mountain ranges with grazing cows, cyclists on the winding roads, tourists playing golf in the valleys and long, colourful summer evenings.

This year's main topic was ‘Project, Time and Self-Management’. The inspiring atmosphere provided the ideal setting to reflect on both institute-related and personal everyday life and to think about how it can be further optimised.

At the beginning, the focus was on a joint analysis of the current situation: Where do the research associates identify a concrete need for action? Building on this, fundamental units on topics such as project management, goal definition and prioritisation followed. Digital tools for project organisation were also presented. Subsequently, the focus was on the development, implementation and consolidation of solution approaches – both at the individual level and in the institute context.

The intensive seminar phases were interspersed with joint group activities and a varied group olympics. In addition to hikes in the surrounding mountains, including the Montagne de Vaunessin, a game of mini golf with a panoramic view at the foot of the Aravis mountain range was also played. The seminar ended on a high note with a group dinner at the Les Sapins restaurant in La Croix Fry, where we enjoyed typical regional cuisine.

A big thank you to all the organisers and contributors to this year's seminar and to the team at Chalet Giersch.