Royal Society of Edinburgh Mentoring Scheme 2023/24

Mentoring is a learning relationship that includes elements of listening, advising, planning, challenge, support and sharing experience. In this programme, mentoring can be understood as: “A confidential active learning process whereby an experienced, empathic person (the mentor) facilitates the development of another individual (the mentee).” 

What are the aims of this scheme? 

Please see our guidance for full information. Overarching aims of the RSE Mentoring Programme:

• To enable PhD students to understand how different disciplines operate, and in turn the interdisciplinary appeal of their research;
• To increase PhD students’ understanding of research impact and career pathways; 
• To define a mentoring skill set and build a culture of collaborative, supportive practice between RSE Fellows and the next generation of research leaders;

It should be noted that each mentee will have the opportunity to set and work towards their own objectives for mentoring.

The general anticipated benefits to mentees are:

1.    An opportunity to build their knowledge about the interdisciplinary potential within their own research and research community;

2.    Dedicated time to focus on career options and planning with access to a knowledgeable sounding board for testing out ideas;

3.    Increased professional networks and points of contact, via the mentor and the other mentees in the programme cohort;

4.    Increased self-awareness, awareness of the transferability of research skills, and confidence in joining new work environments.

Please note that the scheme is designed to be multi-disciplinary and collaborative. PhD students will be matched with a mentor from a different subject area.

Please make sure you have read the RSE-SGSSS Mentoring Guidance before making your application. Applications will be assessed on the impact that involvement in this scheme is likely to have on your professional development. 

Finally, completing the application form is not a guarantee that we will be able to find you a suitable match, but it is a necessary step if you would like to participate. If you have any questions, please contact the SGSSS on team@sgsss.ac.uk.