SPONSOR AT THE LS2 ANNUAL MEETING 2024! Congratulations to the winners of the Exhibition quiz :)
© Photo Patricia Teixidor

WHY a mentor for scientists?

Working in science is captivating but can let you wondering about what the bigger picture could be for you as you proceed on the academic ladder, or when you start guessing what your place outside the lab might be. How to foster your career? Academia is certainly a unique environment with its fast pace and personal drive, but also competition and static hierarchy.

I am sure you are surrounded by lots of smart friends and colleagues to talk to at coffee break. I am not sure if they are ready to focus on you, your doubts, and dreams for long time, or even hours. Mentors are there to listen, and support only you. In addition, only by booking time for a mentor, you are sure to have a dedicated time just for you to address those questions about your career and future that you probably avoid on a daily basis.

A mentor is someone who you turn to for advice in an area that they are more experienced in than you, And that someone shares their experiences and insights with you. And you take from that what you will (ref.).

Is it possible to find the same satisfaction outside academia?
How to identify the perfect role in the private sector?
Are scientists managers, consultants, or leaders?

If you have seen my articles in Science or THE, you know that the answer is YES! Let me help you find your place outside the lab.

FUN FACT: The word mentor is derived from the name of a character appearing in Homer’s Odyssey. When Odysseus (aka Ulysses) was called to fight the Trojan War, he left his infant son Telemachus in the care of a wise friend, Mentor. Odysseus asked Mentor to protect and guide Telemachus during his absence, which lasted until Telemachus himself was a young man of about twenty (ref.). 

Articles presenting my view on mentoring

• Mentoring: The intangible tool to a better quality of life for scientists! ¦ Marie Curie Alumni Association (MCAA)
• How to find personal fulfilment after being a scientist | THE Campus Learn, Share, Connect (timeshighereducation.com)
• How mentor and mentee can help each other | THE Campus Learn, Share, Connect (timeshighereducation.com)
• To find career satisfaction, I learned I didn’t have to choose just one job | Science | AAAS
• Flagging gender bias doesn’t always work | Nature
• Interview with Greta Faccio, PhD – With a Science Degree