Introduction

The BIST Mentoring Programme offers a unique opportunity to foster personal and professional growth within the BIST Community and beyond. Now in its fifth edition, the programme connects experienced professionals with individuals seeking guidance and support in their careers. It aims to create a safe, supportive, and inspiring space for sharing knowledge, exploring new perspectives, and developing skills for future career steps.

Who can benefit from the programme

The programme is open to mentors and mentees from the BIST Community as well as external institutions. This includes:

• Senior researchers and postdoctoral researchers
• Group leaders and scientific staff
• Administrative staff
• Professionals working in public policy, social engagement, education, industry, or entrepreneurship

Anyone looking to develop their career, broaden their professional network, or share their expertise can benefit from joining the programme.

Key elements of the BIST Mentoring Programme

Goals

• Support professional and personal development of mentees
• Provide mentors with the opportunity to develop leadership, communication, and coaching skills
• Build a strong and connected community across institutions and disciplines

A virtual, voluntary programme

• Participation is on a voluntary basis.
• The programme is delivered primarily online, allowing pairs to meet virtually or in person if they prefer.
• Communication language is English, though each pair can choose another language if both agree.

Duration

• The programme runs from February to November each year.
• Mentors and mentees are expected to meet approximately 5–6 times during this period.
• Participants also complete three short follow-up questionnaires (March, June, November) to monitor progress.

Training and activities

• All selected participants must attend a 2-hour online professional training session.
• Training is mandatory to enter the matching process (except for those who have already taken part in previous editions of the programme).
• Participants with training from other mentorship programmes can contact the organisers to explore options.

Matching process

• Up to 50 mentor–mentee pairs will be formed each edition.
• After the training, pairs are matched based on interests and goals.
• Mentors and mentees receive a proposed match through our online platform, which they can review and accept.