Research mentor training is an evidence-based, interactive approach that engages mentors in collective problem solving and connects them with resources to optimize their mentoring practices.
The curricula, called Entering Mentoring, is for mentors of research trainees. It was originally developed for mentors across science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM) disciplines at different career stages, working with undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and junior faculty. The training is designed to help mentors develop skills for engaging in productive, culturally responsive, research mentoring relationships— relationships that optimize the success of both mentors and mentees. You can read more about the development of these training materials.
These curricula address important topics and concepts in research mentoring by creating learning communities and engaging mentors in activities, assignments, case studies, and facilitated discussions to solve mentoring dilemmas and share successful mentorship strategies. Themes include:
- Aligning Expectations
- Addressing Equity and Inclusion
- Articulating Your Mentoring Philosophy and Plan
- Assessing Understanding
- Cultivating Ethical Behavior
- Enhancing Work-Life Integration
- Fostering Independence
- Maintaining Effective Communication
- Promoting Mentee Research Self-Efficacy
- Promoting Professional Development
- And more in development
The Entering Mentoring curricula series addresses the new NIGMS guidelines regarding the preparation of mentors involved in training grants.
Research mentor training based upon Entering Mentoring has been tested and shown to be effective in increasing mentoring knowledge, skills, and behavior. Furthermore, culturally responsive interactions between mentors and mentees can help historically underrepresented mentees successfully progress in their research careers, becoming effective mentors, scientific leaders, and research team members of the future.
Research mentor training is for the research mentors of undergraduate students, graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, or junior faculty working with trainees across disciplines.
We offer customizable research mentor training workshops led by CIMER Trainers. Customized workshops ranging from a few hours to a full day or two are available for the mentors of undergraduate students, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, or junior faculty working with trainees across disciplines. Please complete this online form to request a workshop at your institution or organization.