On 21 January 2026, the Modelling Human–Environment Interactions (MHEI) Research Group held its winter group retreat at the library in Dahlem. The retreat combined focused academic work with reflexive and creative elements, creating space for both productivity and exchange beyond routine research activities.

The morning began with a supervised, offline writing session, encouraging concentrated work without digital distractions. This was followed by a guided reflexivity exercise addressing perspective, privilege and disadvantage in academic research, fostering critical self-assessment within the group. Short movement exercises provided a physical break from extended desk work before the group had a nice lunch at the Japanese Mensa.

In the afternoon, the retreat shifted towards some creative fun with a “Paint your Research” session, where our team members translated their current research topics into painted ceramic pieces. A fun day with many many pretty ceramics coming out of it!