🧖‍♀️ Spa Afternoon 🌿 - WAITING LIST

Take a well-deserved break and join us for a relaxing Spa Afternoon for PhD Students! Enjoy a few hours of rest and recharge with access to wellness facilities, light refreshments, and good company. A perfect opportunity to unwind, connect, and care for your well-being. 🌿

🗓️ Date: Tuesday, February 10th, 2026

⏰ Time: 16h30 - 22h

📍 Location: Spa Well

💰 Price: €17 (spa entrance)

If you are interested in booking a 25 minute massage you can look into spawell.nl for availability and book it through us with a 10% discount.

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

*Reimbursements are not possible for this event

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

Experience the joy of Bollywood dance with high-energy music, expressive moves, and easy-to-follow choreography. This fun and vibrant workshop—perfect for anyone looking to dance, sweat, and celebrate Bollywood vibes! 💃🎶

Date and time: February 7th, 2026 and 12-2pm

Location: Al-Nour Studio

Cost: 5 euros

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

Wellness Lab: Body & Mind 🌿

Join us for a practical and restorative session designed for PhD students who would like to explore simple tools for managing stress and supporting focus.

During this interactive workshop, we will combine:
🧘‍♀️ guided meditation to settle the mind,
🤸 gentle stretching to release common desk-related tension, and
🌸 the creation of a personal aromatherapy breathing tool, which we will use together in a short breathing practice.

The session is designed to be accessible, practical, and directly applicable to everyday research life — from writing and deadlines to meetings and presentations.

No prior experience is needed. ✨

Date and time: February 7th, 2026, 10:30am

Location: Al-Nour Studio

Cost: 5 euros

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

✨ A Magical Night Awaits! ✨

Looking for a magical break from your research routine? Join us for an unforgettable evening surrounded by the warm glow of candlelight in the historic Martinikerk.

Enjoy beautiful live music 🎶 in one of Groningen’s most stunning venues — the perfect way to unwind 😌, recharge, and treat yourself to a soulful night out. ❤️💫

Location: Martinikerk

Price: 40 euros

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of slots.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

🧀🍷Indulge in a cozy and delicious evening at our Cheese Fondue Event! 🧀🍷

What's in store:

• Savor the taste of two distinct cheese fondue types.

• Enjoy a delightful selection of fresh vegetables and artisanal bread from Broodje van Eigen Deeg, perfect for dipping.

• Pair your fondue with wine, beer, or alcohol-free beverages.

Surprise: Did you like the cheeses? You have a 10% discount on a purchase made that evening.

Important Note: The shop is kept cool to maintain the quality of our products. Please come dressed warmly in your favorite sweater or hoodie to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

We look forward to sharing a cheesy evening with you!

Price: 20 euros per person.

Date: Wednesday, January 28th

Time: 6:30 PM (sharp!) - 8:30/9:00 PM 

Location: De Kaaskop Groningen, Zwanestraat 24

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

Zumba Class 💃🕺🎶

Take a break from research and deadlines and join our Zumba class for PhD students! Burn calories while dancing to upbeat music, relieve stress, and have fun with fellow doctoral students. No dance experience needed—just bring your energy and enjoy moving your body! ✨

Date and time: January 24th, 2026, 1pm

Location: Al-Nour Studio

Cost: 5 euros

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

🤸 Stretching Workshop 🦾

Join us for a fun, relaxing stretching session focused on pain relief and feel-good movement. We’ll mix active and passive stretching with yoga-inspired exercises to ease tension, improve flexibility, and help your body unwind. 🧘

Expect gentle, accessible movements for the neck, shoulders, back, and hips, plus calming breathing to melt away stress. No previous experience needed, just come as you are and move at your own pace. 🌿

A refreshing break to stretch, relax, and leave feeling lighter. ✨

Date and time: January 24,2026 and 12-1pm

Location: Al-Nour Studio

Cost: 5 euros

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

Muscle Strengthening Workshop 💪🏻💪🏻

Join us for a muscle strengthening workshop designed to challenge and tone your body! This class will guide you through effective exercises to build power and improve your fitness. 

All levels welcome!

*Healthy drinks included

Location: Al-Nour studio

Date: January 24th, 2026

Time: 11:00h

Cost: 5 euros

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

Kick off the year with a perfect strike! 🎳🥳

Join fellow PhD candidates for a fun, relaxed bowling evening! Whether you’re a strike champion, a bowling enthusiast, or just in it for the snacks, this is the perfect chance to connect, laugh, and enjoy a casual night out together — all for just €5, snacks included.

Date and time: January 22, 2026 | 6PM

Location: Bowling Centrum Groningen

Cost: 5 euros including snacks

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

Warm up with a cup of free mulled wine—on us! The first 5 people to sign up will get to enjoy this cozy winter treat, filled with festive spices and good vibes.

Sign up early, grab your mug, and start the event feeling warm, relaxed, and in a great mood ✨

Date and time: January 30, 2026 and 6pm

Location: Winterstad, Groningen

Cost: Free (only for first 5 signees)

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

Unravel the Mystery!

Step into a world of intrigue and suspense as you and your team race against the clock to solve puzzles, decipher clues, and ultimately escape before time runs out. Join us on Dec 16th (Tuesday) at 5:30 PM for an unforgettable adventure at Escape Hunt in Groningen!

Book your spot now and don't miss out on this exciting escape room experience.

We can't wait to see if you have what it takes to escape!

Duration: 1 hour

Price: 13 euros

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

🧀🍷Enjoy board games with some cheesy bites! 🧀🍷

What's in store:

• Enjoy cheese bites while playing different board games.

• Have a delightful and fun evening with cool company.

Price: 13 euros per person.

We look forward to sharing a fun and cheesy evening with you!

Date: Thursday, November 27th Time: 6:00 PM (sharp!) - 8:00 PM 

Location: DOT Groningen

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

WAITING LIST-🌿 Relaxation Massage Workshop 🌿 (3.5 hours)

Join us for a cozy, heart-centered massage workshop where you’ll learn how to give and will also receive a full-body relaxation sequence, designed to support circulation and release tension.

Working in pairs, you’ll be guided step-by-step through a gentle series of strokes and pressures. You’ll learn how to use your breath, posture, and intention to connect through touch, cultivating relaxation, presence, and flow.

What to expect:

🧠 Part 1: Theory of Massage

´´Unwritten´´ rules and principles that create a safe, respectful and comfortable environment for both the therapist and the patient.

👐 Part 2: Upper Body

In the first part of the massage, we will explore the upper body, activating the upper back, shoulders, arms, hands, and finishing with a soothing head and face massage to awaken radiance and calmness.

🥐 Brunch Break

Enjoy a delicious, nourishing brunch break to fully recharge.

🦶 Part 3: Lower Body

In the second part of the massage, we will move to the lower body, grounding through the lower back, legs, and feet, inviting deep release and full-body balance.

No experience is needed, just bring a friend (or meet one there!) and comfortable clothing you can move in.

🧘‍♀️ Perfect for anyone seeking connection, relaxation, and mindful touch.

Date: November, Saturday 22nd, 10:00 to 13:30

Price: 10 euros per person.

📩 Reserve your spot now!

* Preference will be given to those signing up with a friend (just fill out the form once specifying the name of your friend and a tikkie link for 20 euros will be sent).

 * For those signing up individually, spots will depend on pairing. While filling the form you will be asked if you have any gender preferences for pairing.

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

🎓 Meet & Greet GOPHER — Brunch for PhD Students! 🥐

Are you a PhD student at the Faculty of Behavioural and Social Sciences? Join us for our Meet & Greet GOPHER event — a relaxed brunch where you can connect with fellow PhDs, meet members of GOPHER (Groningen Organisation for PhD Education and Research), and learn more about what we do!

This is the perfect opportunity to:
✨ Enjoy a casual brunch and good company
🤝 Get to know the GOPHER team and other PhD students
💡 Share your ideas and suggestions for future activities and events

Whether you’re new to the faculty or a familiar face, drop by anytime during the brunch — we’d love to hear from you and make sure GOPHER continues to support what you find valuable.

📅 Date: November, Tuesday 18th
🕒 Time: 11:00 am
📍 Location: Heymans Building (Exact location will be sent by email)

Come for the food, stay for the connections — we can’t wait to meet you!

📩 Reserve your spot now!

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

🌿 Waiting List- Relaxation Massage Workshop 🌿 (3.5 hours)

Join us for a cozy, heart-centered massage workshop where you’ll learn how to give and will also receive a full-body relaxation sequence, designed to support circulation and release tension.

Working in pairs, you’ll be guided step-by-step through a gentle series of strokes and pressures. You’ll learn how to use your breath, posture, and intention to connect through touch, cultivating relaxation, presence, and flow.

What to expect:

🧠 Part 1: Theory of Massage

´´Unwritten´´ rules and principles that create a safe, respectful and comfortable environment for both the therapist and the patient.

👐 Part 2: Upper Body

In the first part of the massage, we will explore the upper body, activating the upper back, shoulders, arms, hands, and finishing with a soothing head and face massage to awaken radiance and calmness.

🥐 Brunch Break

Enjoy a delicious, nourishing brunch break to fully recharge.

🦶 Part 3: Lower Body

In the second part of the massage, we will move to the lower body, grounding through the lower back, legs, and feet, inviting deep release and full-body balance.

No experience is needed, just bring a friend (or meet one there!) and comfortable clothing you can move in.

🧘‍♀️ Perfect for anyone seeking connection, relaxation, and mindful touch.

Date: November, Sunday 16th, 10:30 to 14:00

Price: 10 euros per person.

📩 Reserve your spot now!

* Preference will be given to those signing up with a friend (just fill out the form once specifying the name of your friend and a tikkie link for 20 euros will be sent).

 * For those signing up individually, spots will depend on pairing. While filling the form you will be asked if you have any gender preferences for pairing.

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

Waiting List- 🎨 Pottery Painting at Artsy Studio 🖌️

Unleash your creativity and join us for a relaxing and fun Pottery Painting Session at Artsy Studio!

Whether you're an experienced artist or just looking to try something new, this is the perfect chance to express yourself through color and clay. All materials will be provided — just bring your imagination!

🗓️ Date & Time: November, Saturday 8th, 6:30pm
📍 Location: Artsy Studio
💶 Cost:
• €30 – PhD students
• €40 – Non-PhD students

🎁 You'll get to take home your own hand-painted ceramic piece — a unique keepsake or perfect gift!

Spots are limited, so reserve yours soon!

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

🌿 You’re Invited to a Wellness Morning 🌿

Take a well-deserved break from your research and recharge your body and mind.

Join us for a Wellness Morning designed especially for PhD students and friends — a space to slow down, reset, and connect with yourself and others.

🗓️ Date: October 4th

🕘 Time: 11am

💶 Cost: 5 euros

📍 Location: Will be send by email

What’s on the schedule:

✨ Guided Meditation – Start your day with calm and clarity
🤸 Gentle Stretching – Release tension and awaken your body
💆 Shoulder Self-Massage Workshop – Learn simple techniques to ease stress
🥤 Healthy Drinks – Stay afterward to chat and hydrate with fresh, nourishing refreshments

📩 Reserve your spot now!

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

🌿 Day Trip to Kasteel de Haar & Gardens – A Journey Through Dutch Royal Splendor 🌸

Date: 27th of September

Cost: 40 euros for PhD students (includes transport, and entrance fee)

Join us for a captivating day trip to Kasteel de Haar, the one of the largest and most luxurious castles in the Netherlands, located just outside Utrecht. This fairy-tale fortress, surrounded by lush gardens and centuries of history, offers an unforgettable glimpse into Dutch aristocratic life.

🚌 Transport Details:
Comfortable round-trip transportation (bus) will be provided from Groningen Train Station

🍽️ Food:
Bring your own lunch or enjoy a bite at the on-site café with views of the gardens.

Don’t miss this chance to step back in time and experience one of the Netherlands’ most enchanting landmarks!

📩 Reserve your spot now!

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

Location: Schuitendiep 8 Groningen

• Includes: Canal boat ride with drinks included

• Cost: Only 15 euros per person

• Organized by: GSSE PhD Council & GOPHER

It's a great chance to relax, enjoy the city from the water, and connect with fellow students and researchers. Don't forget to sign up early—spots are likely limited!

Sign up here!

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

Join us for a fun and relaxing afternoon on the water! Whether you're a beginner or experienced paddler, this kayak and canoe event is a great opportunity to unwind, enjoy summer, and connect with fellow PhD students.

🗓️ Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025

⏰ Time: 14h - 15h30

📍 Location: Will be shared after payment

💰 Price: €12 (one person kayak), €20 (two person canoe)

Note: if you register for the two person canoe, make sure to include in the form the name of the person who will join you!

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

Take a well-deserved break and join us for a relaxing Spa Afternoon for PhD Students! Enjoy a few hours of rest and recharge with access to wellness facilities, light refreshments, and good company. A perfect opportunity to unwind, connect, and care for your well-being. 🌿

🗓️ Date: Tuesday, August 5, 2025

⏰ Time: 16h30 - 22h

📍 Location: Will be shared after payment

💰 Price: €15 (only spa), €55 (spa plus 25 minutes massage)

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

This event is fully booked. You can register for the waiting list, and we will contact you in case a spot becomes available.

We're firing up the grill for a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow PhDs, enjoy some amazing BBQ, and celebrate our diverse backgrounds. The twist? We're asking everyone to bring a dish from your hometown or home country to share! 

Imagine a spread of flavors from around the world, alongside classic barbecue favorites. It's the perfect chance to:

🗓️ Date: Friday, July 26th

⏰ Time: 12:00 PM

📍 Location: Will be shared when registering.

Cost: 5 euros for PhDs and 7 euros for non PhDs.

Please let us know if you have any dietary registrations.

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

This event was postponed. A new date will be communicated to everyone that registered as soon as possible.

Due to the popularity of the workshop, we decided to organize a second session!

The Phoneography Workshop is designed for students who don’t own a system or reflex camera but are eager to learn the fundamentals of photography using just their phones.

The workshop is split into three parts:
🔸 A theoretical session covering the basics of photography (1.5 hour)
🔸 A practical assignment, where participants will head outside and take photos based on what they’ve learned (2 hours)
🔸 A review session to discuss and reflect on everyone’s work together (1.5 hour)

📅 Date & Time: Friday, 25 July, 13:00 – 18:00

👨‍🏫 Instructor: Miguel Santín (@santinmike.photo / @santinmike.blog)
💰 Price: Open contribution. You will receive a Tikkie link after the workshop and can decide how much you’d like to contribute.
📍 Location: Will be shared after payment

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

This event is fully booked. Registrations are no longer possible.

Date: Sunday, July 20th

Time: 15:00 - 16:00

Location: will be shared after payment

Price: €5 for PhDs, €7 for non-PhDs

Instructor: Sarah van der Sman

Would you like to increase your flexibility and your muscle strength? Do you feel stressed with your projects and would like to ease your anxiety levels? Then make sure to register for our Yoga Workshop hosted by Open Yoga.

This session will be a beginner’s basics class, designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of yoga in a welcoming environment. The class is perfect for beginners because you receive detailed instructions (cues) for every pose. The instructor will explain which parts of the body become more flexible or stronger with each posture. Plus, you'll be offered many options to adjust the poses to suit your body, ensuring maximum benefit and comfort.

We often hear, "I’m not flexible at all!" The short answer: you don’t have to be! Yoga actually helps you become more flexible over time. The long answer: the class is suitable for everyone, especially those who don’t consider themselves flexible. We don’t aim to make you super flexible; instead, we teach that flexibility isn’t a prerequisite for doing yoga. Every body is different, and everyone can practice yoga—even your own body, which varies day to day. Your energy levels and flexibility can differ greatly: one day you might effortlessly maintain balance, and the next, you might fall over. Sometimes you can reach your toes, and sometimes you can't—that’s perfectly normal! Everyone experiences this.

Practical Information:

- Please arrive on time; the door opens 15 minutes before the class begins so you can change, enjoy some tea, or visit the restroom.

- Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy movement. Yoga is practiced barefoot, but feel free to bring your socks inside the studio.

- We provide tea and suggest bringing a water bottle to stay hydrated.

- Remember to bring a towel. If you have your own yoga mat, you're welcome to bring it, although we have plenty for everyone.

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions.

💃🔥Salsa Caleña Workshop - Free Steps/Solo Footwork🕺🎶

Date: Monday, July 14th

Time: 19:00 - 21:00

Location: will be shared after payment

Price: €7 for PhDs, €8 for non-PhDs

Level: Basic (all levels are welcome)

Facilitator: Daniela Mejía Castaño 

Salsa Caleña is a style of salsa that comes from Cali, Colombia. It's a regional dance, and compared to Cuban or linear salsa, it's much more vibrant, faster, and focuses more on footwork and expressive movement, which is called “visaje” in Colombia. 

The guide is a Colombian dancer and journalist who will give us some historical information about the music, the style and the steps. Bring comfortable clothes and plenty of water!

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

This event is fully booked, you can register for the waiting list.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

🧀🍷Enjoy a cozy and delicious evening at our Cheese and Wine Tasting! 🧀🍷

📅 Date: Wednesday, June 25

⏰ Time: From 19h (sharp!) to 21h/21h30 

📍Location: De Kaaskop Groningen, Zwanestraat 24

💰Price: €20 per person

Enjoy a selection of delicious wines and cheeses in a delicious evening with us!

Surprise: Did you like the cheeses? You have a 10% discount on a purchase made that evening.✨

Important Note: The shop is kept cool to maintain the quality of our products ❄️. Please come dressed warmly in your favorite sweater or hoodie to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. 

We can't wait to share this cheesy, wine-filled evening with you! 🍷🍽️✨

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions

🥋💪 Sports Day!  💪🥋

Date: Saturday, June 21st

Time: 11:00 - 15:00 

Location: Multiple locations, the program will be sent by email

Price: €8 per person

Get ready to move, compete, and have fun at our Sports Day!

Join us for an exciting day filled with activities like a high-energy dance workshop, a physical fitness session to test your strength, a group jog to get your heart pumping, and friendly competitions where you can show off your skills. After all the action, stick around to relax and refuel with snacks and drinks provided at the end.

Don’t miss this chance to stay active, make new friends, and make some great memories!💥

Tips: wear comfortable clothes and bring your water bottle!

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the event has been cancelled.

The Phoneography Workshop is designed for students who don’t own a system or reflex camera but are eager to learn the fundamentals of photography using just their phones.

The workshop is split into three parts:
🔸 A theoretical session covering the basics of photography (1 hour)
🔸 A practical assignment, where participants will head outside and take photos based on what they’ve learned (1.5 hour)
🔸 A review session to discuss and reflect on everyone’s work together (1.5 hour)

📅 Date & Time: Friday, 20 June, 13:00 – 17:00

👨‍🏫 Instructor: Miguel Santín (@santinmike.photo / @santinmike.blog)
💰 Price: Open contribution — you’ll receive a Tikkie link and can decide how much you’d like to contribute
📍 Location: Will be shared after payment

This event is fully booked.

🔫 Time to ditch the office and gear up for battle! 🔫

Join Gopher’s laser tag and play two action-packed games — because defeating your friends and fellow PhDs twice is way more satisfying 😏.

📅 Date & Time: Thursday, 19 June, 18:00

💰 Price: €10

📍 Location: will be shared after payment

Only 12 spots available, sign up now! 🚀

⚠️ Participating in laser tag is at your own risk.

Registration is mandatory because there is a limited number of seats.

This event is fully booked. You can register for the waiting list.

By filling out the registration form, you agree to our terms and conditions