The group consisted of animal caretakers, laboratory technicians, technical assistants, animal facility managers, veterinarians, PhD students, postdocs, and animal welfare officers, offering a wide variety of perspectives and experiences. In an open and appreciative atmosphere, participants discussed how a lived Culture of Care could be implemented at different levels – from scientific work and leadership responsibilities to animal care practices.
A particular focus was placed on active listening as the foundation for good communication, consciously adopting different perspectives, and dealing constructively with the various “inner team voices” that emerge during change processes – based on Schulz von Thun’s Inner Team model. His Four Ears Model was also applied to better understand communication processes and potential misunderstandings. In addition, participants intensively practiced how different formulations – such as “Yes, but…” versus “Yes, and at the same time…” – as well as the targeted use of explanatory feedback can influence everyday interactions.
Participants contributed to discussions with great openness, taking the opportunity to share their own experiences and challenges. One participant summarized the experience as follows: “The workshop made it clear that the Culture of Care is more than just a mission statement – it thrives when consciously practiced in everyday life. It not only helps to strengthen collaboration between different professions but also supports the development of one’s own strengths.”
We sincerely thank all participants for their commitment and active involvement, and Dr. Katharina Ameli for her professional expertise, inspiring impulses, and empathetic guidance throughout the day. Working together in such a diverse group showed just how strong the desire is to understand the Culture of Care in biomedical research not just as a concept, but to live it out in daily interactions.
With this workshop, we have taken another important step in combining professional exchange with the development of a shared mindset – thereby sustainably strengthening the Culture of Care.
