UKSBM Mentoring Scheme

The UKSBM Mentoring Scheme supports meaningful and supportive connections between researchers at different career stages. It aims to foster professional growth, shared learning and reflection within the behavioural medicine community.

What is mentoring?

Mentoring is a confidential, non-hierarchical relationship based on mutual trust and respect. It provides a supportive space to:

  • reflect on your professional development;
  • share experiences and explore challenges;
  • build confidence;
  • consider different perspectives; and
  • identify practical ways forward in your research career.

The focus of mentoring will depend on your individual circumstances and goals. Topics might include publishing, career progression, leadership development, work–life balance, building professional networks, or navigating academic and research pathways.

Who can take part?

The scheme is open to UKSBM members at different career stages:

  • Early Career Researchers can apply to receive mentoring.
  • Mid-Career Researchers can participate as either mentees or mentors.
  • Senior Researchers can contribute their experience as mentors.

Before applying, we encourage you to reflect on what you hope to gain from – or  offer through – a  mentoring relationship.

How does the scheme work?

Mentors and mentees are expected to meet at least three times during the year. Each mentoring pair can agree the frequency, format and focus of their meetings according to their shared goals and circumstances.

Most meetings take place online, enabling accessible matching between UKSBM members working across different institutions and locations.

What have previous participants said?

“The mentor has been very supportive and encouraging, offering a fresh perspective on career opportunities and giving great practical advice.”
Mentee
Mentee
“I have found the mentoring scheme extremely helpful. I have achieved a lot during this time, and this has all been helped by speaking with my mentor every 3-months or so. Of course, like for many others, the financial issues within academia have meant that our defined areas of discussion have changed over the course of the mentoring programme, but this has been extremely helpful to have this flexibility. This is due to areas that had previously been seen as a priority shifting within this landscape. I am hoping to get back on track with the initial areas outlined at the start such as time management and funding applications (within the mentoring programme I have submitted my first NIHR Co-I and Co-PI applications).”
Mentee
Mentee
“Thinking about advice to give to my mentee was valuable to me personally and in terms of my own interactions with others in my institution.”
Mentor
Mentor

Apply to join the scheme

If you are interested in participating as a mentor or mentee, please first read the Mentoring Scheme Expectations and Guidance.

 Both mentors and mentees should complete the Application Form.

If you have any questions about the scheme, please contact the UKSBM Career Development Officer.