The question of career orientation can represent a complex issue for many – should one choose an academic environment or the private sector? How should you set up a comprehensive career plan, and how can you effectively implement it?
There are many possible answers to these questions. TRUNI offers you two in the form of tools developed by experts from the European higher education environment – REFLEX and TDS. Below you will find a written definition of both models.
If you would like to try both, follow the instructions and guidelines provided in the links. We also recommend that you work with them in the presence of your mentor or supervisor. In case of any uncertainties regarding the methodology of completing them, you can contact the authors of the tools, whose contact details are available below the links.
REFLEX Model
What it is about
REFLEX is a European tool and framework for managing researchers’ careers, developed through collaboration among partners from multiple countries. Its aim is to respond to changing research career paths and to create a flexible, transferable system for career development. It focuses on helping researchers become independent, creative, and adaptable professionals.
How it works
REFLEX operates as a modular framework – it connects various existing career tools, practices, and services into a single system. It uses a combination of analysis of existing tools, stakeholder workshops, and real-world testing to create context-adaptable solutions. The result is a “package” of modules (competencies, services, processes) that can be combined according to the needs of a specific country or organization.
Who it is for
The primary target group is researchers (especially in the academic environment), but also HR departments, universities, research organizations, and services such as our EURAXESS centre. The tool is designed to serve not only individuals but also institutions that wish to systematically manage talent development.
What it helps with
REFLEX helps to systematize career development, improve the quality of career guidance, and tailor support to different career paths (both academic and non-academic). At the same time, it supports the development of career skills, better orientation in choosing career options, and the integration of existing tools into a functional ecosystem. For more information, please visit the official website.
Access via link - REFLEX application
Contact person:
Janka Kottulová, SAIA, n.o. (janka.kottulova@saia.sk)
TDS (Talent Development Suite)
What it is about
Talent Development Suite (TDS) is an online tool for individual career planning that differs in that it does not primarily focus on assessing skills, but rather on defining a personal vision of life and career. It is a reflective tool that supports deeper self-awareness and long-term decision-making.
How it works
TDS is structured into four main parts: Future, Present, Past, and the Personal Journey Map. The user gradually reflects on their goals, current situation, and past experiences, and then connects them into a concrete career plan. The process takes approximately 1–2 hours when completed individually and can be complemented by collaboration with a mentor or a “sparring partner.”
Who it is for
The tool was primarily developed for postdoctoral researchers in the early years after their PhD, when they are deciding between academic and non-academic careers. However, it can also be used by doctoral candidates and more experienced researchers who want to reassess their direction.
What it helps with
TDS helps users clarify their personal and professional goals, identify strengths, learn from past experiences, and connect their career with personal life. It supports the creation of concrete steps leading to a desired future and increases awareness of personal priorities, resulting in more informed career decisions.
Access via link - TALENT DEVELOPMENT SUITE
Alexandra Zingg, ETH Zurich, Switzerland (alexandra.zingg@sl.ethz.ch)
Kathrine Vangen, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway (kathrine.vangen@ntnu.no)
Ilse Schenk, Nuffic, The Netherlands (ischenk@nuffic.nl)
