Mentoring for postdoctoral researchers in rheumatology: the Emerging EULAR Network (EMEUNET) post-doc mentoring programme

Abstract

ObjectiveThis study aims to (1) assess the perceived need for a postdoctoral (post-doc) mentoring programme in rheumatology, (2) describe the characteristics and organisational aspects of a pilot mentoring programme implemented by the EMerging European League Against Rheumatism NETwork (EMEUNET) and (3) report mentors’ and mentees’ evaluation of the pilot programme.MethodsAn online survey was conducted among young researchers in rheumatology to evaluate the need and preferred characteristics of a post-doc mentoring initiative. Informed by the survey, a pilot programme was designed and launched. The pilot programme was evaluated with 3-month, 6-moth and 12-month surveys and interviews with mentees and a 12-month survey among mentors, after completion.ResultsFrom 275 responses (43 countries, 86% from Europe) collected, analyses were restricted to the target population (total population=158; post-docs (n=103 (65%)) and PhD students (n=55 (35%))). There was a clear need (99% positive responses) for a post-doc mentoring programme. Discussions about current and new projects, and how to lead projects were ranked as priorities in post-doc mentoring. The most desired mentor attribute was generosity and interest in helping (86%), followed by research experience (68%) and having a well-established network (66%). The pilot programme included four mentees (through competitive application) allocated to three mentors. Evaluation surveys and interviews revealed that the programme organisation and content were well appreciated by mentees and mentors.ConclusionsThe EMEUNET post-doc mentoring programme addresses unmet need for mentoring, is viable and appreciated by mentors and mentees. The programme structure and content are transferable to other fields where there is need for academic career mentoring.

Multidisciplinary collaboration among young specialists: results of an international survey by the emerging EULAR network and other young organisations

“…Indeed, EMEUNET has successfully developed online interactive tools promoting networking and knowledge exchange among young clinicians and researchers across the world, and has been pioneering these efforts (journal club, peermentoring programme, etc). [13][14][15] Similar initiatives have been pursued by other organisations. Of note, the current study, involving four young specialists' organisations, testifies to the feasibility and success of 'at-distance' multidisciplinary collaborations.…”

Gender equity in academic rheumatology, current status and potential for improvement: a cross-sectional study to inform an EULAR task force

“…In contrast, there is a clear potential for EULAR to influence many of the salient professional factors, such as gendered norms and behaviours in rheumatology, gender balance in professional associations and the visibility of suitable role models in rheumatology, both on their own and with support from national professional societies and associations. Similar to the EMEUNET postdoctoral mentoring programme, 45 EULAR could potentially offer mentoring and sponsorship programmes to complement institutional ones. There is a clear potential to influence some of the factors related to personal skills and capabilities by offering training on promotion and salary negotiation skills, career planning skills, self-confidence and leadership skills.…”

Comparison of scientometric achievements at PhD and scientific output ten years later for 4,790 academic researchers

“…Reviews also help to grasp available methods for scientific writing [ 24 ]. Other options include the continuous mentoring even after the competition of the PhD [ 25 ]. Overall, the requirement to publish is a constant high pressure for employees working in academic institutions [ 26 ].…”