For all doctoral candidates, TACs are formed consisting of two mentors and the thesis advisor. One of the mentors is a PI of the RTG, while the second mentor can be selected from either internal (University of Cologne) or external cooperation partners.

The committees meet once a year, the first time during the introductory course. In preparation of the meeting, our doctoral candidates send a two-page report to their TAC members. During the TAC meetings, they present their work and provide their vision for the coming year. Mentors critically discuss the progress of the project, provide input, suggest additional directions and guide the overall project.