The Dead Sea Research Venue hosted the first DESERVE Winter School at Masada, Israel from 24 November to 5 December 2014. At temperatures still above 20°C, DESERVE welcomed 25 students from universities, and research institutions, in particular Master and PhD students, with manifold educational background ranging from geophysics to hydrology and meteorology and common interest in the Dead Sea region.  

The Winter School was opened by a science slam. Each participant presented his/her research in an entertaining way, only with the help of a self-drawn picture. There was a lot of laughter.
After two introductory days on the geology, climate, biology, and economy of the region, the Winter School focused on hydrological and meteorological aspects of the Dead Sea region. Internationally recognized researchers of DESERVE and invited experts hold lectures on e.g. rainfall runoff processes, the energy balance of the region, convection as well as hydrochemistry. The lectures were accompanied by exercises and field days.
The Winter School was closed by a farewell party lasting until sunrise.

 

 

The participants’ feedback was very positive. DESERVE is pleased that the Winter School brought forward their research as well as contributed to the scientific exchange within and among the different disciplines. There was a great atmosphere among the students. They enjoyed their stay, had a lot of fun and made new friends.

“I wanted to thank you for letting me take part in the DESERVE Winter School. It was very interesting, I learned a lot and at the same time I met nice people from around the world. Also, I wanted to say that the organization and planning of the winter school was WUNDERBAR and I wanted to thank you again for the experience I've experienced.”(Feedback of one participant)

DESERVE would like to thank all lecturers for sharing their knowledge and experience. An event like the Winter School would not be possible without their support. A special thanks goes to the motivated participants of the DESERVE Winter School. Thank you very much for your participation and your active contribution in this event. It was a great pleasure to host you at Masada.
DESERVE is looking forward to meeting all participants again in the framework of DESERVE. The second DESERVE Winter School will focus on the solid earth processes in the Dead Sea region and will take place in 2016.