The PhD retreat is a second inclusive and self-organized activity of the PhD students. Similar to the DUW-Symposium, the PhD-retreat is a scientific and social event by and for PhD students. The retreat is taking place every two years with the main aim of fostering social interaction and cohesion among PhD students of the DUW. It has a science program of and by the PhD students and can be complemented, e.g. with an organised keynote lecture given by a distinguished external researcher. PhD students are encouraged to attend and present their work in an informal setting. An organising committee of up to 3 PhD students jointly organise the event (credit points in the elective module) with little support from the PhD coordinator. This organising committee defines the science program, the venue and accommodation, the social and networking agenda.