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SUND Mentoring for Change programme - information for heads of department and PhD schools

Mentoring for Change is designed as a group programme where one mentor is responsible for one group of mentees. The idea behind the group mentoring programme is that a mentor can more easily identify patterns based on multiple similar experiences of obstacles and barriers that may be systemic in nature. In small, confidential groups, mentees can share experiences, form networks and learn from and support each other.

Mentoring for Change at SUND is planned as mentoring groups consisting of 4-5 mentees. The programme runs for one year. During the programme, there will be two full-day seminars where all the mentoring groups meet to discuss a common theme. In addition, mentors and mentees are expected to meet five times during the programme.

PhD students can start twice a year, postdocs/assistant professors once a year. Starting the mentoring programme is expected within the first year of their employment/enrolment.

A diploma is awarded upon completion.

PhD students

  • PhD students are introduced to the mentoring programme at the PhD school's introduction programmes. 
  • A written memo about the mentoring programme has been prepared for both PhD students and their principal supervisors.
  • Registration for the mentoring programme is binding.

Postdocs and assistant professors

  • Postdocs and assistant professors are offered the mentoring programme by the heads of department, for example when they are employed.
  • A written memo of the mentoring programme has been prepared for the mentees.
  • The heads of department are asked once a year for mentees in the postdoc/assistant professor category.

Mentors

  • Mentors are appointed by heads of department.
  • A ‘bank’ of mentors is created.
  • The number of mentors depends on the number of mentees enrolled.
  • A written memo about the mentoring programme has been prepared for mentors regarding their obligations.
  • Mentors for PhD students are typically postdocs/assistant professors or relatively new associate professors. Mentors for postdocs/associate professors are typically associate professors.
  • Once a year, heads of department are asked for a list of potential mentors.
  • A mentor commits to completing an entire programme and a minimum of one group.

The mentoring function is recognised as a valued activity similar to supervision. Standard hours are expected to amount to 5x2 hours plus preparation for group meetings and 3 hours for meetings with GET. An estimated total of 20 hours per programme/group.

Read more

You can read more about the SUND mentoring programme on SDUnet - the practicalities, the idea behind it as well as who to contact.

Last Updated 20.02.2024