Who is the target group for SciMento-hessenweit?

SciMento-hessenweit is a mentoring and training programme for doctoral students and early postdocs in the natural, life and engineering sciences.

What benefit does a participant of SciMento-hessenweit gain?

SciMento-hessenweit is an instrument to support young female scientists that is composed of two elements, both of which are tailored to fit the special needs of young female scientists. The group mentoring provides an opportunity to network which is not often found in their direct work context. Workshops and the mentor give additional support by transferring, not work context knowledge, but professional skills for working in academia. Additionally a professor is assigned to each mentee group whom the mentees will meet on a regular basis to discuss each woman’s career development. The professors are renowned with much experience in academia and a wide range of contacts who are able and willing to share their accumulated knowledge about the inside structures of academia with their mentees.

FAQ How much time does the 2-year SciMento mentoring programme need in order to successfully complete it?

The mentoring programme is based on an active exchange between mentees and with their mentors. Experience has shown that mentee groups need to meet every 6 to 8 weeks in order to thrive and fulfill their purpose. Where, when and for how long you meet is a decision for your group. Every 3 months (4 times a year) your group meets your mentor. These meetings are organized by your group, thus giving you the opportunity to influence date and time. All meetings are documented by a report to show your own career development. The duration of the meetings can vary; an average is 2 to 3 hours.
SciMento also provides a professional supporting programme, beginning with a one-day seminar when the programme starts in November, continuing with a half-day workshop after one year for reflection purposes and concluding with an evening event for celebration at the end of the programme.
In addition, SciMento offers a variety of interesting one- or two-day workshops which are designed to support you in your personal career development and professionalization. You are free to attend as many workshops as you wish.

Is participation in the mentoring scheme free of charge?

Participation in the mentoring scheme is free of charge but there is a small fee when attending the workshops offered during the programme.

How is SciMento-hessenweit financed?

Until the end of 2010 it was financed by the Hessian Ministry of Science and the Arts. From 2011 onwards, the five Hessian universities have taken over and together they finance the mentoring programme.

How long does the mentoring programme last?

The duration of the programme is two years. It starts in October/November each year. The amount of time needed for the regular meetings is organized in such a way that the programme can be attended alongside the participant’s scientific job.

Is it possible to attend a SciMento event when I have to care for children?

SciMento supports work-life balance and offers its mentees the opportunity to be refunded by us if you hire a babysitter for the time required ta attend one of our workshops or other events. The relevant form can be found on our website under the heading 'Member Area'.