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. With the support of mentors, mentees can share experiences in small confidential groups, form networks and gain learning and support from each other.
Mentoring for Change at SUND is planned as mentoring groups consisting of 4-5 mentees. The groups are created so that the mentor and group members do not have a close everyday collegial relationship. Mentors are not allowed to co-operate with mentees in their own group. PhD students and postdocs/assistant professors are in separate groups. The same groups continue throughout the programme.
The programme runs for one year. During the programme, there will be two full-day seminars where mentees participate in person (mentors are welcome). Mentors and mentees are expected to meet in groups for a minimum of five 2-hour meetings during the programme.
During the first meeting, the mentor and mentees agree on how often, in what format and with what degree of preparation the group plans to meet during the programme. The group also discusses boundaries and ethics. The agreement also makes explicit the group's mutual expectations of confidentiality and ethical conduct in relation to the mutual sharing of experiences. Group meetings can be held in person or online as agreed by the group.
As a mentee, you commit to:
- completing the programme, participating in all group meetings and seminars. Group dynamics are challenged if members of the group are missing.
- having meetings with the mentee group and mentor 5 times during the programme
- complying with general rules of confidentiality
- Informing your principal supervisor about your participation in the mentoring programme prior to starting the programme
The mentor is responsible for:
- making an agreement with the mentee group on how often, in what format and with what degree of preparation the group plans to meet
- ensuring that the conversations in the mentee group establish a safe and secure space for all participants - and that everyone understands the general rules of confidentiality
- transforming mentee group input into organisational learning, input on a systemic level and organic change
As a mentee, you can expect:
- a confidential network of like-minded junior researchers. The group may choose to continue the network after the end of the programme
- a focus on individual career development and organisational understanding
- a focus on opportunities and barriers in academia
- a focus on wellbeing
- exciting full-day seminars offering inspiration and discussions on negotiation techniques, communication, sponsorship/mentorship/networking, and work-life balance (catering included)
- Head of department covers transportation costs