The ÖMI PhD Writing Retreat took place from 28 to 30 August

The main criteria for participating in the Writing Retreat were to have a manuscript or any sort of academic text (e.g., book chapter) in preparation that attendees could work on during the retreat.  While the student attendees dedicated most of their time to writing, seminars to provide tips and skills from drafting to publication, feedback sessions with mentors, and activities to increase community spirit within ÖMI were organized. A mentoring team comprising of mostly early career researchers from the departments of geography, botany, and geology served as overall organising committee and assisted the students in the feedback sessions.

Prof Toomas Tammaru and Meelis Pärtel conveyed how to structure a research paper and effective writing practices, and how the publishing process works. Prof. Toomas Tammaru kickstarted the Writing Retreat with a seminar on best writing practices. PhD students asked questions and could learn from Toomas’ extensive experience. On the second day Prof. Meelis Pärtel led a seminar where he shared his experience as chief editor, handling editor, and grant evaluation panel member in Estonia and at the European Research Council. During the session he provided valuable insights into how editors and panel members view manuscripts. The session concluded with an open expert Q&A session.

Tuesday afternoon after Meelis's informative and engaging seminar, the students spent their time writing until we left for a hike around Pühajärve. The hike was voluntary, and several students got into the "zone" with their writing and preferred to take advantage of that by staying back at the hotel. We got back from the hike just in time for dinner that tasted especially good after walking for ca. 2,5 hours along the lakeside. In the evening, it was up to everyone if they wanted to relax at the pool or go to the sauna.

On the last day, another short info session dealt with Modern AI tools as writing assistance, if and how to use them responsibly. Reflecting on the final day's session, the students together with the mentors kick started the morning by exploring the utility of ChatGPT in academia, its potential in refining research questions, drafting, and writing scripts. Prior to the discussion, the students had time to familiarize themselves with the "University of Tartu guidelines for using AI chatbots for teaching and studies.,”s. The students then gshared their experiences, thoughts, or insights about the digital tools utility with their peers and the mentors provided additional insights on this topic.  Overall, we recognized ChatGPT's role as a digital collaborator enhancing writing proficiency but only when used responsibly. We highlighted that although ChatGPT can be a useful tool, it still has several shortcomings that need to be taken into account.  
After the round table discussion, the participants had the opportunity to resume their individual writing endeavours. In the late afternoon, the students were randomly paired to offer feedback on manuscripts outside their discipline, fostering a culture of constructive support.

Finally, prior to leaving Pühajärve we wrapped everything up with a few final words, thanking everyone for participating. Our day concluded with feedback from the students on what could be improved next time.