If you ever have questions, concerns, or just need someone to talk to, these people and committees are here to help: 

🧑‍💼 Management 

Our department management is committed to maintaining a healthy, respectful, and professional workplace. You can always reach out if you have ideas for improvements, need support, or face challenges at work. 

👥 Local Liaison Committee (LSU) 

The LSU is a committee where management and employee representatives collaborate to improve workplace conditions. They handle issues related to well-being, cooperation, and communication. You can contact the employee representatives with any concerns or ideas. 

🛠️ Work Environment Committee (LAMU) 

LAMU works to ensure a safe and healthy physical and psychological work environment. If you experience challenges related to your work setup, stress, or other environmental issues, they are here to listen and act. 

🧑‍🔧 Union Representatives 

Our union reps are available if you need advice on your rights, working conditions, or if you want support navigating workplace challenges. They are trained to guide you confidentially and respectfully. 

🎓 PhD Committee 

The PhD Committee looks after the interests and well-being of our PhD students. They are your go-to group for questions about your PhD journey, and they organize regular initiatives to support both academic and personal wellbeing. 

💬 Our Values: Zero Tolerance for Offensive Behavior 

We want AGRO to be a place where everyone feels safe and respected. That's why we have zero tolerance for abusive, offensive, or discriminatory behavior. 

If you ever experience or witness behavior that makes you uncomfortable — no matter how small, it may seem — you are encouraged to reach out to one of the support contacts above. You will be heard, and your concern will be taken seriously and handled with discretion. 

We have several ongoing initiatives designed to support your mental, social, and professional well-being. Here’s what you can make use of: 

👯 Buddy Scheme 

Originally developed by our PhD students, the AGRO Buddy Scheme ensures that every new colleague has a friendly point of contact in their early days. Buddies help you get to know the workplace — both professionally and socially — and make sure you feel welcome from day one. 

🧭 Introduction Meetings for New colleagues 

Four times a year, we hold introduction meetings for new colleagues. You’ll get practical tips and important information about being an employee in AGRO. There will be specific introduction meetings for new PhD students following the general meeting. 

🗣️ Wellbeing Conversations 

Twice a year, all PhD students are invited to a confidential wellbeing conversation with a senior PhD committee member. You set the agenda and can talk about anything on your mind — scientific challenges, stress, or life in general. Participation is expected, but the conversations are informal, confidential, and completely student-led. No documentation is made unless you request further support. 

💬 AGRO Days 

Once a year, we host a two-day event for all employees in the Department. The event alternates yearly: in even-numbered years, it's for the entire department; in odd-numbered years, it's focused on VIPs and PhD students. This is a chance to come together across roles and locations, share ideas, and explore relevant themes that matter to both individuals and the department.  

🤝Mentor/Mentee Programme for Postdocs 

We are currently developing a mentor/mentee programme tailored for postdocs at AGRO, based on input from early career researchers in the department. 

The goal of the programme is to offer postdocs a trusted, experienced colleague outside their immediate research group to talk to about career development, navigating academia, building networks, work-life balance — or anything else that’s important to them. 

People & Committees 

Support Resources