Workshop
Second International Workshop on Life Course Analysis
Christian Dudel | Carla Rowold Michaela | Kreyenfeld
Hertie School in Berlin, August 18–19, 2026
About
The life course approach has made a lasting impact on the social sciences. It provides a dynamic perspective on individual lives, which are seen as evolving processes shaped by critical transitions. Moreover, the approach stresses the embeddedness of individual life courses in socioeconomic and cultural contexts. This perspective has been highly influential across many disciplines, and it has spawned a rich and fast-evolving literature.
The main goal of this event is to bring together researchers to present and discuss recent developments in life course analysis and to contribute to advancing the field. This includes (1) theoretical perspectives on the life course; (2) methodological innovations in quantitative and qualitative methods; and (3) empirical applications of the life course approach from across the social sciences and beyond, including studies on labor markets, health, families, and migration. Postgraduate students are welcome as are experienced scientists.
The event will be held on August 18-19, 2026, at the Hertie School in Berlin: Before the workshop, a one-day methods course on multistate modeling for life course research will be taught on August 17, 2026, also at the Hertie School. Please indicate in your application if you want to participate in this course.
Call for Papers
Send English-language applications in a single PDF file, including an abstract of up to 500 words and a short CV (max. 1 page) to lifecourse@demogr.mpg.de. The deadline for applications is February 28, 2026. Applicants should either be enrolled in a PhD program or already have received a PhD. Please get in touch if this does not apply to you, but you are interested in participating. Questions regarding the workshop can also be sent to lifecourse@demogr.mpg.de.
Call for Papers (PDF File, 41 kB)
Important Dates
Deadline call for papers: February 28, 2026
Methods Course on Multistate Modeling: August 17, 2026
Workshop Date: August 18-19, 2026