The mdw invites pre- and postdoc researchers to participate in a mentoring programme lasting several months. In light of the fact that academic life continues to be characterised by structural gender inequalities that can be seen in the underrepresentation of women, inter* and non-binary persons as professors, this programme is designed as a concrete measure to help counteract such unequal treatment over the course of one’s academic career.
Programme 2025/26
The mdw Mentoring Programme is composed of four elements: a skills training, one-to-one coaching, mentoring in small groups, and the peer group. The three skills training modules represent a significant component of this mentoring programme. They serve to convey knowledge on career-relevant topics, to analyse the overall academic working environment, to expand upon and hone soft skills, and to reflect as a peer group on the content covered. The project of developing a personal roadmap for one’s academic career accompanies the mentees through all three modules with corresponding focuses on various skill sets. Furthermore, participants can take advantage of up to two coaching appointments with academic coaches.
Skills training
The modules are designed to provide knowledge on career-related topics, analyze artistic and academic fields, and develop and strengthen soft skills and reflective abilities.
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Mentoring in small groups
The mentoring programme is designed to support strategic career development within an academic context and is therefore not focused on the content or specific aspects of the participants’ own research disciplines.
The international mentors work with small groups of three mentees. This form of mentoring enables individual guidance, support and personal interaction with a mentor. At the same time, there is also an intensive exchange with peers, who support and advise one another in a collegial manner.
One-to-one coaching (optional)
The coaching sessions with experienced coaches are designed to help participants focus in depth on their own professional concerns, goals and career development opportunities within the university context. In addition to the mentoring programme, mentees may, if required, take part in up to two coaching sessions (in person or online) for a maximum of three months following the end of the programme (late 2026).
Peer-Group & Peer-Mentoring
The group of twelve mentees meets regularly as part of the skills training programme and in online meetings. This peer group encourages the exchange of knowledge and experiences among colleagues and helps to expand and strengthen participants’ own scientific and academic networks. All peer mentoring sessions were listed in the timetable.
Follow-up
The follow-up session is dedicated to reflecting on learning outcomes, looking ahead to future projects and providing feedback on the mentoring programme.
A programme within the framework of the mdw Diversity Strategy, initiated by the Administrative Department for Equity, Gender & Diversity in cooperation with mdw Reasearch Support and the Human Resources Development - Center for Further Education (ZfW).