Fiasco Fest workshop at Maynooth University – for a more failure-friendly research culture!

Fiasco Fest meets Maynooth University and Ireland’s early career researchers on 5 June. The main goal of the “Fiasco Fest goes Arqus” initiative is to destigmatise rejection in academia and promote learning from mistakes in a supportive environment.

The session will be facilitated by Professor Sabine Bergner from the University of Graz and will also be attended by Professor Marian Crowley-Henry and Professor Katriona O’Sullivan as the Maynooth University trainers.

This workshop is meant for early-career researchers across disciplines in Ireland. It is an open, fun, social space to share disappointments and hopes with others at a similar career stage. No preparation required! Just bring yourselves and an open mind.

The Fiasco Fest creates space for researchers to talk openly about obstacles and failures. Developed three years ago by Sabine Bergner and Johanna Stadlbauer from the University of Graz, the project has been a success, and it is now also being implemented at other universities of the Arqus Alliance. 

The Fiasco Fest will take place on Thursday 5 June 2025, from 14:30 to 17:00 GMT+1, at Maynooth University. It aims to be safe and open space for early-career researchers to share their stories of setbacks and failures. Rejection is a normal part of academia. The Fiasco Fest is an afternoon where career misfortunes in academia are shared, snacks and drinks are served, laughs are had, and we celebrate each other, resiliently moving towards our best professional selves. Participants are welcome to stay on afterwards to network with others. Join us for a mix of chaos, fun, reflection and empowerment! More information and regsitration here.

Learn more about “Fiasco Fest goes Arqus”. It is one of the many initiatives funded by the Arqus Innovation Fund.