What's in for me?

The PGR mentoring scheme provides an opportunity for mentors and mentees to:

• share experiences and learn from each other in a supportive and confidential space
• develop and enhance skills in active listening, creative problem solving and emotional intelligence all valued by employers and funders
• contribute to the creation of a vibrant early career research community
• mentoring and being mentored can be included in personal development plans and evidence of a commitment to professional development as part of the Researcher Development Concordat by both PGRs and research staff/postdoc mentors.

What mentee's have said about being supported by a mentor

I've learnt that even across disciplines, many PGRs are grappling with the same issues - confidence, academic identity, how to manage upwards with supervisors - and the more that is shared between researchers, the more easily these issues can be improved.

I have learnt that most other PhD students go through very similar feelings to me. I have learnt that setting goals and sticking to them can be incredibly helpful.

I have developed confidence in my work and being able to discuss it with a mentor has increased my confidence to share the research with others.

That imposter syndrome is common in academia and not a reflection on one's ability.

Learning from the experiences of those who has walked the ropes before us provides us with an opportunity to broaden our field of vision. We not only learn new ways to overcome research obstacles but also gain better understanding of life in academia.

What's mentors have said they've learnt from the scheme

This is a great opportunity to share your experiences and knowledge with others - it's really rewarding to listen and support others.

It is rewarding to be able to use your own experiences, good or bad, to relate to and support others during critical times of their PhDs.

Mentoring is a fantastic opportunity to play a role in the healthy development of early career researchers.