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How to Design Scientific Figures

Veranstaltungsdaten

Event language: English

What is the first thing we scientists look at in scientific articles or on posters? The figures! But they are not only meant to be eye-catching. They also convey information with a density that words can never attain. Because figures are so powerful in communicating scientific data, extra care should be taken when designing them. In this event, you will learn basic design rules and how to apply those rules to your figures. These universal concepts can be transferred to all kinds of scientific figures — from maps, diagrams, or plots to schematic visualizations.

Qualification Outcomes

• You will understand basic design rules and how to apply them in the design of scientific figures (presentation and group discussion).
• You will know how and why these design rules positively aid in understanding the message of a figure (comparison and discussion of figures).
• You will be able to spot how figures can be improved (trainer input and practical exercise).
• You will know about different color palettes, where to find them, and how to use them (practical exercise).
• You will be able to identify suitable diagram types/visualisations for your data (group discussion, practical exercise).

This event does not offer in-depth software training.

Requirements

Please bring your laptop and one to three figures designed by you in a digital image format. We will work with your figure(s), giving you the opportunity to directly apply your new theoretical knowledge.

Proficiency in English at the B2 level of competency or higher is required.

Dates

September 22, 2026, 9 am–5 pm, and
September 23, 2026, 9 am–12:30 pm

Target group

Doctoral candidates from all disciplines

Modalities

Maximum number of 12 participants
Attendance fee 40 EUR

Registration

Please register until September 7, 2026 using the online registration form.